The Delta state Police command has launched a manhunt for perpetrators behind the burning of a woman identified as Mrs Afornughe, accused of attempting to kidnap a child in Agbarho, Ughelli North local government area of the state on Wednesday, September 24.
The victim was beaten and set ablaze by an irate mob on Wednesday after she was accused of hiding a young boy in a sack. The mob descended on her in a frenzy, ignoring all pleas for restraint.Videos shared online showed the mob manhandling her before setting her ablaze.
Confirming the incident to newsmen, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Bright Edafe, said no suspect has so far been arrested and added that efforts are being made to ensure to ensure they get arrested.
“No suspect has been arrested yet. We are on the trail of those who carried out the dastardly act. Nobody has the monopoly of violence, and no one should take the law into his own hands”he said
Residents disclosed that Agbarho has in recent months been gripped with fear over frequent cases of child abduction, resulting in calls for “unconventional justice” against suspected kidnappers.
Police have called for calm in the community, stressing that investigations were ongoing to bring the perpetrators to justice.