Two Artisans Lynched in Edo State After Mistaken Identity

Two Artisans Lynched in Edo State After Mistaken Identity

Two artisans, identified as Osamudiamen Ehigie and Nosa Aghimie, were tragically lynched by a mob in Benin, the capital of Edo State, after being mistaken for armed robbers.

The incident occurred in the Amagba community of Oredo Local Government Area, where the victims, both welders, were returning from a project site around 6 p.m. They reportedly encountered gunmen who had just carried out a robbery in the area. Upon spotting the artisans, the gunmen fled, prompting Ehigie and Aghimie to seek safety in a nearby house.

Unfortunately, residents in the neighborhood mistook the artisans for the fleeing robbers, apprehending and beating them to death. Subsequent police investigations cleared the two men of any involvement in the robbery, with the site owner where they had been working affirming their innocence.

The Edo State Police Command has arrested three suspects connected to the mob action: Frank Abolo (37), Samson Odewole (22), and Happy Ohiowere (25). Two additional suspects are still at large.

Confirming the incident, SP Moses Yamu, the state police spokesman, expressed regret over the tragic loss of life and assured the public that the suspects had been charged with murder.

“The command is aware of the incident where two young men lost their lives in such an unfortunate manner. Investigations have commenced, and three suspects have been apprehended, while efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining individuals involved,” Yamu stated.

This incident underscores the dangers of mob justice and highlights the need for communities to exercise caution and rely on law enforcement to address crime.