The Benue State Police Command has warned against the unlawful obstruction of public highways, following a tragic multiple motor vehicle accident that claimed nine (9) lives and left several others injured along Katsina-Ala highway.
A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer DSP Udeme Edet confirmed that the accident, involved a MAN diesel truck with registration number TARABA ARD 967XA and multiple vehicles, after members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Katsina-Ala Branch allegedly blocked the highway, causing severe traffic disruption that triggered the fatal crash.
Edet said victims were rushed to Toro Hospital Katsina-Ala for treatment, while deceased bodies were deposited at the General Hospital .
The PPRO said the Chairman of NURTW Katsina-Ala Branch, Aja Vanger ‘M’, along with two members, Stephen Kahungur ‘M’ and Saater Vihiga ‘M’, who allegedly caused the obstruction, have been arrested and are currently in custody and will be prosecuted upon completion of the investigation.
The Command reiterated that blocking highways is a criminal offense that endangers public safety and will attract decisive legal consequences.
He noted that individuals or groups involved in such acts will face the full wrath of the law.
The Benue State Police Command urged all road users and transport operators to prioritize safety, obey traffic regulations, and avoid actions that endanger lives.
While the Command empathized with affected families, it promised to enforce the law firmly to prevent future tragedies.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
