Two men have been arrested in connection with the assault of a woman at a public market in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State over her inability to pay a market levy. The incident, which occurred on Monday, August 10, 2026, has sparked outrage and prompted swift action by the Benue State Civil Protection Guards (BSCPG).
Arrest and Confirmation
The suspects, identified as Terwase Aye Abere and Mayange Aondowase, both from Igbor village in Gwer East, were taken into custody by operatives of the BSCPG. Comrade Mfa Igirgi Jnr, Media Aide to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Dr. Joseph T. Har, confirmed the arrest in a statement. According to the statement, the woman was hospitalized following the assault, underscoring the severity of the attack.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses reported that the confrontation began when the suspects approached the woman to collect market levies. The woman explained that she had not made any sales that day and was unable to pay. Dissatisfied with her explanation, which they perceived as a refusal, the two men allegedly attacked her in an attempt to force payment. A bystander immediately reported the incident to the Special Adviser, prompting Dr. Har to order the suspects' arrest.
Suspects' Claims
During interrogation at the BSCPG facility in Makurdi, Abere and Aondowase claimed to be volunteers attached to the BSCPG Gwer East Command. They stated they were on duty under the supervision of the Ward Commander, Mr. Tiletswen. The suspects alleged that earlier that morning, Mr. Tiletswen and one Mr. Ipker instructed them to invite the woman to their office regarding an unresolved issue. When she refused, they reported back by phone and received a second instruction to arrest her "even by force." They claimed this directive led to the confrontation that left the woman injured.
Official Reaction
Reacting to the incident, Dr. Har condemned the assault and ordered the State Commander of the BSCPG to produce the commanders mentioned for immediate interrogation. He also directed that the two suspects be transferred to the Police Headquarters for further investigation and possible prosecution. The Special Adviser issued a stern warning to individuals posing as security operatives, especially in rural areas, to desist from such acts.
"The law will catch up with anyone hiding under the cover of security to harass or intimidate citizens," Dr. Har said. "Security personnel must always adhere to the voluntary principles of human rights and security in the discharge of their duties." He further urged the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, stating, "Timely information saves lives and protects property."
Ongoing Investigation
The victim is currently receiving treatment, while investigations into the matter are ongoing. The case highlights concerns about the conduct of volunteer security personnel and the enforcement of market levies in rural areas. The BSCPG has yet to issue a detailed response regarding the allegations against its personnel, but the transfer of the suspects to the police signals a commitment to thorough legal proceedings.
