The Nigeria Police Force has condemned the deadly mob attack on travelers along the Uromi-Obajana Road in Edo State, where vigilantes took the law into their own hands, leading to tragic consequences.
Force spokesperson ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated that the travelers, who claimed to be hunters, were found in possession of 19 locally made guns when intercepted by a local vigilante group.
Doubting their explanation, the vigilantes accused them of criminal activity and executed violent mob justice.
Reacting swiftly, the Edo State Police Command deployed officers to the scene, restoring normalcy and arresting 14 suspects.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend others involved in the incident.
Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun has ordered the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to take over the case, ensuring a comprehensive probe.
He emphasized that jungle justice is unacceptable and that all offenders will face prosecution.
The IGP further warned that illegal possession of firearms remains a serious offense under Nigerian law.
He advised anyone with unlicensed weapons to either surrender them at police stations or follow due process to obtain proper authorization.
Appealing for restraint, Egbetokun urged the public to allow law enforcement agencies to conduct thorough investigations and to report security concerns through official channels instead of resorting to mob actions.
The police have reaffirmed their commitment to bringing all those responsible for the attack to justice, emphasizing the need to maintain law and order across the country.