Mob sets suspected thief ablaze in Akwa Ibom

In the early hours of Wednesday, an unidentified man suspected of theft was tragically set ablaze by a mob in Ikpe Ikot Akpan village, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, revealed this incident in a statement to the public. According to her, the incident transpired around 7:05 a.m., following an allegation that the deceased had attempted to steal a motorcycle belonging to Idoroenyin Udo.

Upon discovering the theft, the motorcycle owner allegedly resisted and raised an alarm, prompting some villagers to pursue and apprehend the suspect. Instead of surrendering the suspect to the police for a proper investigation, the mob reportedly took matters into their own hands, assaulting and burning the suspect alive, leading to his demise.

The police have launched an investigation to identify and arrest all individuals involved in this heinous act, emphasizing that anyone found guilty will face justice according to the law. The Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, condemned the incident and warned against jungle justice, stating that it is unlawful, dangerous, and unacceptable as it hinders proper investigation and can result in the killing of innocent individuals.