The police have arrested 17 suspects in connection with the m8rder of one Uromchi Okorocha over alleged witchcraft in Enohia Itim village, Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
It was gathered that local youths accused Okorocha of k!lling several people through the use of witchcraft.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, January 5, 2025, said the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, condemned this act of jungle justice in totality and urged citizens to refrain from taking laws into their own hands.
According to Adejobi, the suspects mobilised themselves, apprehended the accused, and resorted to setting him ablaze before the arrival of a police team.
“On the 3rd of January, 2025, police operatives attached to the Ebonyi State Command, arrested 17 suspects in Enohia Itim village, Afikpo LGA for the múrder of one Uromchi Okorocha ‘m’, who was accused by local youths of being involved in the kílling of several individuals through alleged witchcraft and spiritual means,” the statement reads.
“The suspects had mobilized and apprehended the déceased, but instead of handing him over to legal authorities and committing to the rule of law, they decided to take laws into their hands, becoming judge, jury and executioner.
“The police operatives of the Unwana Division mobilized tactical teams to the scene on a rescue mission but the angry mob had already k!lled and burned Mr Okorocha before the arrival of the police team.
“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., condemns this act of jungle justice in totality.
“Citizens are once again urged to refrain from taking laws into their own hands and report any suspected criminal activities to the nearest police division or formation around them for necessary action.
“The efforts of the police are a constant reaffirmation of the dedication to bring to book perpetrators of heinous acts of crime in our societies.
“The IGP once again reiterates the unwavering commitment of the Force to public safety and justice for victims of violent crimes.
“Citizens are encouraged to engage with security agencies, providing any information that may assist in the ultimate goal of creating a utopian society for all.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains ever committed to ensuring a safe environment for everyone.”
