Two men have been arrested for assaulting a woman over non-payment of market levy in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident occurred at a public market on Monday August 10, 2026.
The suspects, identified as Terwase Aye Abere and Mayange Aondowase, from Igbor village in Gwer East, were arrested by the Benue State Civil Protection Guards, BSCPG.
Comrade Mfa Igirgi Jnr, Media Aide to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Dr. Joseph T. Har, who confirmed the incident in a statement said the woman was hospitalized following the assault.
According to eyewitness accounts, the confrontation began over the collection of market levies.
The suspects reportedly approached the woman after she said she had not made any sales and was unable to pay.
Dissatisfied with her explanation, which they took as a refusal, the two men allegedly descended on her in an attempt to compel payment.
An eyewitness immediately reported the matter to the Special Adviser.
Acting on the report, Dr. Har directed the arrest of the suspects.
Operatives of the BSCPG promptly effected the arrest and both men are now in custody.
In their statement to investigators at the BSCPG facility in Makurdi, Abere and Aondowase claimed they were volunteers attached to the BSCPG Gwer East Command.
They said 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 to comply, they said they reported back by phone and received a second instruction to arrest her “even by force.”
They claimed that directive led to the confrontation that left the woman injured and admitted to hospital.
Reacting to the incident, Dr. Har condemned the assault and ordered the State Commander of the BSCPG to immediately produce the commanders mentioned for interrogation.
He also directed that the two suspects be transferred to the Police Headquarters for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Special Adviser warned individuals who pose 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 members of the public to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
“Timely information saves lives and protects property,” he added.
The victim is currently receiving treatment, while investigations into the matter are ongoing.
