Benue Civil Protection Guards arrest two over alleged assault on woman
Two Arrested After Assault on Woman at Benue Market
Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG) have apprehended two individuals, Terwase Aye Abere and Mayange Aondowase, following an alleged assault during a dispute at a public market in Igbor Village, Gwer East Local Government Area.
The assault left the victim hospitalized. Witnesses reported that the altercation stemmed from a disagreement over market levies. The suspects allegedly confronted the woman after she informed them that she had no sales and was unable to pay the fees.
Frustrated by her explanation, the men reportedly attacked her in an effort to enforce payment. An eyewitness promptly notified the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Dr. Joseph T. Har, who authorized their arrest.
BSCPG operatives acted swiftly, taking both men into custody. During their statements at the BSCPG facility in Makurdi, Abere and Aondowase claimed to be volunteers associated with the BSCPG Gwer East Command. They asserted that they were acting under the supervision of Ward Commander Mr. Tiletswen, who had instructed them to invite the woman to their office regarding the matter. When she refused, the suspects stated that they reported back by phone and received further instructions to apprehend her “even by force,” leading to the altercation.
In response to the incident, Dr. Har demanded that the state commander of the BSCPG produce the aforementioned commanders for questioning. He also ordered the transfer of the two suspects to Police Headquarters for further investigation and potential prosecution.
Dr. Har emphasized the importance of lawful conduct among security personnel, particularly in rural areas. “The law will catch up with anyone hiding under the cover of security to harass or intimidate citizens,” he stated. “Security personnel must always adhere to the voluntary principles of human rights and security in the discharge of their duties.”
The victim continues to receive medical treatment as investigations remain ongoing.
