Police Hunt Vigilante Leaders Over Mob Killing of Two Youths Accused of Kidnapping

The Delta State Police Command has launched a manhunt for those responsible for the gruesome mob killing of two young men accused of kidnapping in Mosogar, Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, February 13, 2025, has sparked widespread outrage and concern over extrajudicial killings.

According to reports, a mob set two youths ablaze after beating and hacking them to death. The victims, said to be from Oghara community, were allegedly abducted by vigilante members from Mosogar who accused them of being kidnappers. One of the three abducted individuals managed to escape and sought refuge at a nearby police station.

Addressing the press in Warri on Wednesday, February 19, Delta State Police Command spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, confirmed that an investigation is underway. He assured residents of Mosogar and Oghara communities that efforts were being made to bring those responsible to justice.

“The police are on the trail of the vigilante leader and community leader who masterminded the mob action,” Edafe stated. “Some lawless vigilante personnel from Mosogar had gone to a community in Oghara and abducted three persons, claiming they were kidnappers. One of them escaped, while the other two were overpowered by a mob in Mosogar and set ablaze.”

Edafe reiterated the commitment of law enforcement to ensuring that those behind the attack are held accountable. He urged residents to remain calm, assuring them that justice would be served.

In response to the incident, the Oghara Elite Forum, a socio-cultural organization in Delta State, has strongly condemned the killings. The group called for immediate intervention by security agencies to prevent tensions from escalating between Oghara and Mosogar Kingdoms.

The organization also appealed to the Chairman of Ethiope West Local Government Area, Christian Onogba, to take swift action in addressing the matter. In a statement signed by its President-General, Dr. Jacob Ighere, the group expressed deep concern over the manner in which Mosogar youths allegedly raided Ijomi community in Oghara, forcefully took the deceased individuals to Mosogar, and executed them without a fair trial.

The Oghara Elite Forum further urged the Delta State Commissioner of Police and relevant state agencies responsible for peace and conflict resolution to expedite their efforts in delivering justice. They warned that failure to act swiftly could lead to heightened tensions and a potential communal conflict.

As investigations continue, the police have assured the public that those responsible for the unlawful killings will face the full weight of the law.