The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has strongly condemned the brutal mob attack by a local vigilante group in Edo State, which led to tragic deaths after travelers were falsely accused of being kidnappers.
The violent incident occurred along the Uromi-Obajana Road, where vigilantes intercepted a truck carrying individuals who claimed to be hunters. Upon discovering 19 locally made firearms in their possession, the vigilantes—without conducting proper investigations—concluded they were criminals and subjected them to unlawful mob justice.
In swift response, the Edo State Police Command deployed officers to restore order, arresting 14 suspects linked to the attack. A manhunt is now underway for others involved.
To ensure justice, the IGP has directed the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), led by DIG Sadiq Abubakar, to take over the case and conduct a thorough, impartial probe. He assured the public that those responsible will face the full weight of the law.
While condemning the resort to jungle justice, the police reiterated that possession of unlicensed firearms is a criminal offense. The IGP urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities to the authorities rather than take matters into their own hands.