Woman, Vigilantes Arrested For Beating And Burning 20yr old Over Alleged Theft

In a disturbing incident, police in Sapele, Delta State, have arrested two women and a group of vigilantes accused of brutally beating and setting a young man ablaze over an alleged theft. The victim, 20-year-old Abubakar Yusuf, was accused of stealing ₦400,000 from a shop in Sapele Market.

The tragic event unfolded when Mrs. Onoriode, a shop owner in the market, accused Yusuf, a wheelbarrow pusher, of stealing money from her locked store. Upon her request, a group of vigilantes were called to apprehend Yusuf. According to eyewitnesses, the men took Yusuf away, where he was severely beaten before being set on fire.

However, in a shocking twist, it was later revealed that the money had not been stolen by Yusuf. Onoriode’s sister reportedly admitted to having taken the money for safekeeping.

Following the brutal assault, Onoriode and other market women took Yusuf to a local chemist for treatment. He was treated and discharged, though his condition remained critical.

The incident has since sparked outrage in the local community. A Human Rights group, led by Comrade Kingsley Imode, took up the matter, reporting the case to the police, who moved to arrest those involved. The suspects, including two women and the vigilantes, are now in police custody, pending further investigation, source confirmed.

Yusuf, meanwhile, has been transferred to Sapele Central Hospital, where he is receiving further medical care.