Police operatives in Benue State have arrested two individuals in connection with the killing of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Benjamin Msughaondo, who was attacked by a mob over a false allegation of motorcycle theft.
The incident occurred near the Buruku Local Government Secretariat, specifically at Major settlement, around midnight on Sunday.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the state police command, Edet Udeme, said the victim was accused by a group of individuals who claimed he had stolen a motorcycle.
According to her, the accusation was made without verification, leading to a violent mob attack that resulted in his death.
“He was wrongly accused of stealing a motorcycle, and without verifying the claim, he was mobbed to death,” Udeme said.
She explained that initial findings from the investigation have shown that the claim was unfounded. Documents relating to the motorcycle reportedly confirmed that the deceased was, in fact, its rightful owner.
Police said two suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the incident, while at least one other suspect remains at large.
Udeme added that efforts are ongoing to track down all those involved, assuring that a comprehensive investigation would be conducted and that those responsible would be brought to justice.
The case has once again drawn attention to the dangers of mob justice, particularly in situations where allegations are not properly verified before action is taken.
