Crime
Two Suspected Armed Robbers Burnt to Death in Onitsha; Police React
In a shocking incident that unfolded in Onitsha on Wednesday, two individuals suspected of being armed robbers were brutally set on fire by an angry mob, leading to their tragic deaths.
A widely circulated video of the horrifying incident shows bystanders in a state of panic and distress as the two men struggled and writhed in agony while flames consumed them. Some onlookers were heard crying, while others added fuel to the fire to prevent the suspects from escaping.
The Anambra Police Command has swiftly responded to the incident, condemning the act of “jungle justice” while acknowledging the notoriety of the suspects as armed robbers.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), conveyed the sentiments of the Commissioner of Police, CP Aderemi Adeoye. He emphasized the importance of the public reporting criminal offenders to the nearest police station, allowing the law to take its course.
Furthermore, CP Aderemi Adeoye has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident to uncover all the details surrounding this horrifying event.
Ikenga also provided preliminary information about the two male suspects, identified as Omaume and Monday, who were part of a notorious armed robbery gang led by another criminal named Ikanda. Notably, Ikanda is already in custody at the Onitsha Correctional Service Custodial Centre. The gang is alleged to have been responsible for multiple attacks and the theft of personal belongings from traders and unsuspecting victims at the Main Market in Onitsha.
This tragic incident has raised concerns about the prevalence of mob justice in the state and the need for a more lawful approach to addressing criminal activities. The investigation into this case will shed further light on the circumstances leading to the gruesome death of the two suspected robbers.