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| Motorcycle Snatcher Set Ablaze in Benue State After Failed Robbery Attempt |
A suspected motorcycle snatcher was set ablaze by a mob in Makurdi, Benue State, after a failed robbery attempt involving an okada rider and three attackers.
Mob Justice in Benue: Motorcycle Snatcher Burnt Alive
A dramatic scene unfolded on Tuesday morning in Makurdi, Benue State, when a suspected motorcycle snatcher was caught and set ablaze by a mob along Ibrahim Kashim Road.
The incident highlights the rising cases of motorcycle theft and mob justice in Nigeria, raising concerns over security lapses and the dangers of jungle justice.
How the Motorcycle Theft Attempt Happened
According to eyewitness Andrew Tergu, two passengers hired a motorcyclist, popularly known as an okada rider, to take them to the Railway Quarters area in Makurdi.
Unknown to the rider, a gang member had been stationed at the drop-off point. As soon as the passengers alighted, the waiting accomplice pretended to pay the fare but instead attacked the rider.
- The motorcyclist was stabbed multiple times with scissors.
- The gang attempted to flee with the motorcycle.
- One of the suspects fell while trying to escape, leading to his capture by the mob.
How the Mob Responded
Tergu reported that once the suspect was caught, residents dragged him onto the main road, where he was beaten and eventually set ablaze by the mob.
By the time reporters arrived at the scene, staff members of the Benue State Sanitation Agency, alongside policemen, were seen evacuating the charred remains of the suspect.
Police Reaction to the Benue Motorcycle Snatching Incident
When contacted, the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the incident. She, however, noted that full details of the case would be released after ongoing investigations.
For verified security reports and updates on incidents across Nigeria, you can check the official Nigeria Police Force website and regional crime analyses from platforms like Premium Times.
The Growing Concern of Jungle Justice in Nigeria
The case once again brings to light the rising issue of jungle justice in Nigeria, where suspects are executed by mobs before law enforcement intervention. While many argue this stems from frustrations with rising crime rates and slow justice delivery, human rights advocates stress the need for lawful prosecution.
Key Issues with Mob Justice:
- Bypasses the rule of law and due process.
- Leads to wrongful killings of innocent individuals in some cases.
- Fuels insecurity by promoting lawlessness.
Conclusion
The motorcycle snatching case in Makurdi, Benue State, underscores the need for stronger security measures and awareness campaigns against jungle justice. While communities are frustrated with increasing cases of robbery and theft, taking the law into one’s hands often leads to further chaos and injustice.
Authorities are urging residents to always hand over suspects to the police for investigation and prosecution instead of resorting to mob action.
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