TheCable

Two suspected robbers were burnt to death on Wednesday by an angry mob at the Onitsha main market in Anambra state.

Christian Aburime, chief press secretary to the Anambra governor, confirmed the incident to TheCable on Thursday.

“Yes, the incident was on video and people saw it online. It was a mob action and I am sure the police are already investigating it,” Aburime said.

Ikenga Tochukwu, police spokesperson in Abrambra, said the suspects were members of a criminal group terrorising residents of the state.

Tochukwu said the suspects were simply identified as Omaume and Monday.

“The commissioner of police, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has condemned the act and reiterated his call for members of the public to always take criminal offenders to the nearest police station for necessary policing actions, particularly the conduct of appropriate investigations,” he said.

“The CP has, therefore, ordered a thorough investigation of the incident.

“Meanwhile, preliminary information reveals that the two male suspects, who were later simply identified as Omaume and Monday, are members of a notorious armed robbery gang led by one Itanda (male), already in the Correctional Service Custodial Centre.

“The gang is alleged to be responsible for several acts of attack and the dispossession of traders and unsuspecting victims of their personal belongings at the Main Market, Onitsha.”

He added that the commissioner of police urged members of the public to desist from taking laws into their hands.