PORT HARCOURT — Three members of a vigilante group, including the leader, have been arrested for allegedly torturing a man to death in Rivers State. The incident occurred at Okogbe Community in Ahoada West Local Government Area.
The suspects — Joshua, the group’s chairman, Friday Silas, and motorcyclist Obed Godlove — were apprehended by community youths and a Joint Task Force in Ukpeliede Community on Sunday while attempting to dispose of the victim’s body. The deceased, identified as Ghadafi, was reportedly arrested on Saturday after being accused of stealing palm fruits from the community.
Security officials found the victim’s hands and legs still tied with ropes at the time of the arrest. Joshua claimed that Ghadafi had been terrorizing the community, and they intended to banish him when he died during the apprehension.
Mr. Osiga King, Chief Security Officer of Ukpeliede Community, said the suspects were caught after community members noticed suspicious movements. “We sighted a motorcycle carrying someone who appeared dead, and upon tracing them, we discovered the body. The suspects tried to transfer the corpse, but we stopped them and contacted security agencies,” he said.
Police confirmed that the deceased had previously been involved in stealing and attempted to rape a NYSC member in 2023. Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, stated, “The suspect was assaulted by community youths, which led to his death. Three suspects have been arrested, and investigations are ongoing.”
The arrest underscores growing concerns about vigilante justice in communities and the importance of proper law enforcement interventions to prevent mob violence.
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