POLICE LAUNCH MANHUNT FOR SUSPECTS OVER MOB KILLING OF MAN IN AKWA IBOM

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By; Sunmola Ganiyat

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has commenced a manhunt for individuals allegedly involved in the killing of an unidentified man who was reportedly beaten and set ablaze by a mob in Ikpe Ikot Akpan Village, along the Ikot Ekpene–Uyo Road.

The incident occurred at about 7:05 am on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, following an allegation that the deceased had attempted to steal a motorcycle belonging to one Idoroenyin Udo.

In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John, the police said preliminary investigations indicated that the motorcycle owner resisted the alleged theft and raised an alarm, prompting residents to chase and apprehend the suspect.

According to the police, the unidentified man was subsequently attacked by the mob, set on fire and burnt to death.

The Command said it had launched a full investigation into the incident and intensified efforts to identify and arrest all those who participated in the mob action.

DSP John stated that anyone found to have been involved in the killing would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, condemned the incident and warned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands.

Azare stressed that no individual or group has the authority to determine the guilt of an accused person or impose punishment outside the legal system.

He urged residents to hand over anyone suspected of committing a crime to the appropriate authorities for investigation and prosecution.

The Commissioner also advised members of the public to report suspected criminal activities to the police rather than resorting to mob action.

He described jungle justice as unlawful and dangerous, noting that it could destroy evidence, hinder investigations and result in the death of innocent people.

The police said investigation into the incident is ongoing, while efforts continue to apprehend everyone connected to the mob killing.