Two men have been arrested for allegedly assaulting a woman over her inability to pay a market levy in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident reportedly occurred at a public market on Monday, August 10, 2026.
The suspects, identified as Terwase Aye Abere and Mayange Aondowase, both from Igbor village in Gwer East, were arrested by operatives of 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, confirmed the incident in a statement, noting that the victim was hospitalised following the alleged assault.
According to eyewitnesses, the confrontation started when the suspects approached the woman over the payment of market levies. The woman reportedly told them that she had made no sales and therefore could not afford to pay the levy.
The explanation allegedly angered the men, who interpreted it as a refusal to pay. They reportedly assaulted the woman in an attempt to force her to make the payment.
An eyewitness subsequently reported the incident to Dr. Har, who directed security operatives to arrest the suspects.
The BSCPG responded swiftly and took both men into custody. During questioning at the BSCPG facility in Makurdi, the suspects claimed to be volunteers attached to the BSCPG Gwer East Command and said they were operating under the supervision of a Ward Commander identified as Mr. Tiletswen.
They alleged that Tiletswen and another individual, identified as Mr. Ipker, had earlier instructed them to invite the woman to their office over an unresolved matter.
According to the suspects, the woman declined to follow them, prompting them to report the development by phone. They claimed they were subsequently instructed to arrest her “even by force,” which they said led to the confrontation.
Reacting to the incident, Dr. Har condemned the alleged assault and directed the State Commander of the BSCPG to produce the commanders mentioned by the suspects for questioning.
He also ordered that Abere and Aondowase be transferred to the Police Headquarters for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Special Adviser warned individuals who impersonate security personnel, particularly in rural communities, to stop using the guise of security duties to harass or intimidate members of the public.
“The law will catch up with anyone hiding under the cover of security to harass or intimidate citizens,” Dr. Har said.
He further stressed that security personnel must respect human rights and follow proper procedures in the discharge of their duties.
Dr. Har also urged members of the public to promptly provide credible information to security agencies, noting that timely reporting could help protect lives and property.
The victim remains on admission and receiving treatment, while investigations into the incident continue.
