Suspected Child Thief Lynched in Delta State

Tension gripped Agbarho community in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State on
Wednesday, after an angry mob lynched a suspected child thief.
Eyewitnesses told reporters that the woman, whose identity could not immediately be confirmed,
was accused of attempting to abduct a 7-year-old boy from a family compound in the area.
According to residents, the alarm was raised when the child’s cries attracted neighbours who
quickly apprehended the suspect.

Efforts to hand her over to security operatives reportedly failed as a mob descended on the
woman, beating her severely before setting her ablaze. By the time police patrol teams arrived at
the scene, the suspect had already died.
The incident has sparked fear and debate in the community, with many condemning the resort to
jungle justice. “We understand the anger, but mob action is not the solution. People should
always hand suspects to the police,” said a local youth leader, who urged residents to exercise
restraint.

Delta State Police Command has since confirmed the incident, warning against taking the law
into one’s hands. Police spokesperson, DSP Bright Edafe, told journalists that investigations are
ongoing. He appealed to communities to cooperate with security agencies in curbing crime while
respecting due process.
Child theft and kidnapping have remained pressing security concerns in parts of Delta and
neighbouring states, often fueling community mistrust and vigilante-style justice. Security
analysts warn that mob actions, while stemming from frustration, only undermine the rule of law
and could lead to tragic mistakes if innocent persons are wrongly accused.

The Delta State government is yet to issue an official statement, but community elders have
begun consultations to calm rising tension in Agbarho.

By Oyinkansola Shittu.

thewyreng