Press Release
Two women escaped untimely death in Uyo, Akwa Ibom capital following Akwa Ibom Police Command intervention.
After rescuing the women, the policemen arrested a suspect allegedly linked to the violent attack described by authorities as “barbaric” and unlawful.
The incident occurred on Tuesday along Ring Road 3 in Uyo, where an irate mob reportedly stripped the two women naked, assaulted them publicly and attempted to execute them over allegations yet to be verified by lawful authorities, according to the Police Command.
The Command condemned the attack, warning that jungle justice, mob action and all forms of extrajudicial violence would not be tolerated in Akwa Ibom State.
Police spokesperson, DSP Timfon John, stated that the Commissioner for Health, Ekem Emmanuel John, witnessed the incident while on his way to work and immediately alerted security operatives after noticing that one of the victims had sustained severe injuries and was bleeding heavily.
“Upon receipt of the distress call, operatives of the Command swiftly mobilized to the scene, dispersed the violent crowd, rescued the victims from imminent danger, and rushed them to a medical facility where they are currently receiving treatment and responding positively to medical care,” the statement said.
The Police further revealed that one suspect, identified as Emediong Robert, 22, from Ikot Ekwere in Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, was arrested at the scene for allegedly inciting the mob and calling for the execution of the women.
Commissioner of Police, Baba Mohammed Azare, has ordered a full-scale investigation and manhunt for others connected to the incident, vowing that all perpetrators and accomplices would be arrested and prosecuted.
The Police boss warned residents against taking laws into their hands, stressing that no allegation justifies torture, humiliation or attempted murder.
The Command also commended the intervention of the Health Commissioner, whose swift action it said helped save the lives of the victims.
