The Delta State Police Command has arrested and arraigned three persons over a viral video showing the alleged torture of a resident in Emevor Community, Isoko North Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects, identified as Lucky Okeremu, 48, Chairman of Emevor Community, Okiemute Oyibo, 46, and Karo Akamakusi, 45, were arrested following investigations ordered by the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the Commissioner of Police directed the Area Commander, Ozoro Area Command, to carry out an immediate and discreet investigation after the disturbing video surfaced on social media and attracted widespread public attention.
Edafe said the investigation, which was further strengthened by a petition from concerned human rights activists, revealed that the incident occurred on Sunday July 5, at about 8:15 a.m.
He stated that the suspects, acting alongside others who are still at large, allegedly apprehended the victim and took him to a hotel in Emevor Community, where he was reportedly humiliated, assaulted, inflicted with bodily injuries and threatened with death.
Following the conclusion of investigations, the three suspects were arraigned before a competent court on charges of conspiracy to commit felony, assault occasioning harm, conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace, and threatening the life of the victim, contrary to the relevant provisions of the Criminal Code Law of Delta State.
The police spokesperson disclosed that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other suspects linked to the incident who remain at large.
Commenting on the development, Commissioner of Police Yemi Oyeniyi warned that no individual or group has the right to mete out unlawful punishment to anyone under any guise.
“While the Command recognises the role of community leaders and vigilante groups in supporting security efforts, no individual or group has the authority to assault, torture, intimidate or subject any person to unlawful punishment,” the Commissioner said.
He stressed that anyone who takes the law into their own hands would face the full weight of the law.
The Commissioner further urged vigilante groups across the state to always hand over suspects to the police for proper investigation and prosecution, rather than resorting to jungle justice or other illegal acts.
The Delta State Police Command emphasized its commitment to protecting the rights of all residents and ensuring that anyone found culpable of criminal acts, regardless of status or position, is brought to justice.
