Three officials of the National Union of Road Transport Workers(NURTW), Katsina-Ala branch, in Benue State, have been arrested by the operatives of state Police command over their alleged role in a crash that claimed the lives of nine passengers.
Benue State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, who confirmed the arrest of the NURTW officials through a statement issued to newsmen on Sunday, 30 November, 2025, the incident occurred on Friday, 28 November, 2025 along Katsina-Ala highway.
According to Edet, the NURTW officials allegedly blocked the highway, causing severe traffic disruption that triggered the fatal crash.
The statement partly read: “Benue State Command strongly warns against the unlawful obstruction of public highways, following a tragic multiple-vehicle accident that claimed nine (9) lives and left several others injured on 28th November 2025, along Katsina-Ala highway.
“The accident, which occurred at about 20:15hrs, involved a MAN diesel truck with registration number TARABA ARD 967XA and multiple other 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.
“Victims were rushed to Toro Hospital, Katsina-Ala, for treatment, while deceased bodies were deposited at the General Hospital.”
The statement added: “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.”
The state police image-maker added that the suspects would be prosecuted upon completion of the investigation.
While reiterating that the command frowns upon blocking highways, the state police publicis described such acts as “criminal offences that endanger public safety and will attract decisive legal consequences.”
The statement therefore, urged all road users and transport operators to prioritise safety, obey traffic regulations, and avoid actions that endanger lives.
The command also expressed empathy to the affected families and assured them that the law would be enforced firmly to prevent future tragedies.
