IGP Deploys FCID to Investigate Mob Killings in Edo
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Sadiq Abubakar, to lead the investigation into the recent mob killings of travelers by a local vigilante group in Uromi, Edo State.
The IGP tasked DIG Abubakar with ensuring a thorough, impartial, and expedited investigation while assuring the public that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) remains committed to upholding the rule of law. He emphasized that unlawful killings or extrajudicial actions would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
It was reported that a group of individuals traveling in a truck, who claimed to be hunters, were found with 19 locally fabricated firearms when intercepted by vigilantes. Unsatisfied with the travelers’ explanation, the vigilantes, suspecting the individuals of being kidnappers, subjected some of them to mob justice, resulting in fatalities.
In response, the Edo State Police Command immediately deployed officers to restore order in the affected area. As of now, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, and a manhunt is underway for other individuals involved in the mob action.
The IGP has called for calm and urged the public to cooperate with the investigation. He warned that anyone found guilty of any offense would face the full force of the law.
Furthermore, the Nigeria Police Force condemned the practice of jungle justice, reiterating that unlawful possession of firearms remains a criminal offense under Nigerian law. The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, urged individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms to surrender them to the nearest police station or initiate the appropriate licensing process.
