The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has strongly condemned the recent mob attack in Edo State, which led to the brutal killing of travelers accused of being kidnappers.
The tragic incident occurred along the Uromi-Obajana Road, where a local vigilante group targeted a group of travelers.
In an official statement released on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the police chief denounced the extrajudicial actions and emphasized the importance of due process and the rule of law.
Details of the Incident
According to the statement, the victims, who were traveling in a truck, identified themselves as hunters and were found in possession of 19 locally made firearms. However, the vigilantes suspected them of criminal activity and labeled them as kidnappers.
“Rather than allowing law enforcement to investigate, the vigilante group resorted to unlawful mob action, resulting in tragic consequences,” the statement read.
Police Response and Investigation
In response, the Edo State Police Command deployed officers to the affected community to restore order. So far, 14 individuals have been arrested in connection with the attack, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects.
To ensure a comprehensive and impartial investigation, the IGP directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police for the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Sadiq Abubakar, to take charge of the case.
Reaffirming the force’s commitment to justice, Egbetokun stated, “The Nigeria Police Force will not tolerate unlawful killings or extrajudicial actions under any circumstances.”
Call for Calm and Legal Compliance
The IGP urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the investigation, cautioning against acts of jungle justice. He also reminded citizens that possessing firearms without proper authorization is a crime under Nigerian law.
“Anyone in possession of unlicensed firearms should surrender them at the nearest police station or follow the proper legal procedures for licensing,” the statement advised.
The police also encouraged the public to report suspicious activities to law enforcement rather than taking matters into their own hands.
