17 Suspects Arrested For Burning Man To D3ath Over Alleged Witchcraft In Ebonyi

The police have arrested 17 people in connection with the murder of one Uromchi Okorocha for supposed witchcraft in Enohia Itim village, Afikpo Local Government Area, Ebonyi State.

According to reports, Okorocha was accused by local teenagers of using witchcraft to kill multiple individuals.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, said in a statement on Sunday, January 5, 2025, that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, completely condemned this act of jungle justice and urged citizens not to take the law into their own hands.

According to Adejobi, the suspects mobilised, seized the accused, and then set him on fire before a police squad arrived.

“On the 3rd of January, 2025, police operatives attached to the Ebonyi State Command, arrested 17 suspects in Enohia Itim village, Afikpo LGA for the múrder of one Uromchi Okorocha ‘m’, who was accused by local youths of being involved in the kílling of several individuals through alleged witchcraft and spiritual means,” the statement reads.

“The suspects had mobilized and apprehended the déceased, but instead of handing him over to legal authorities and committing to the rule of law, they decided to take laws into their hands, becoming judge, jury and executioner.

“The police operatives of the Unwana Division mobilized tactical teams to the scene on a rescue mission but the angry mob had already k!lled and burned Mr Okorocha before the arrival of the police team.

“The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., condemns this act of jungle justice in totality.

“Citizens are once again urged to refrain from taking laws into their own hands and report any suspected criminal activities to the nearest police division or formation around them for necessary action.

“The efforts of the police are a constant reaffirmation of the dedication to bring to book perpetrators of heinous acts of crime in our societies.

“The IGP once again reiterates the unwavering commitment of the Force to public safety and justice for victims of violent crimes.

“Citizens are encouraged to engage with security agencies, providing any information that may assist in the ultimate goal of creating a utopian society for all.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains ever committed to ensuring a safe environment for everyone.”