Two artisans, Osamudiamen Ehigie and Nosa Aghimie, were killed by a mob in Benin, Edo State, earlier this month after being wrongly identified as armed robbers. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. in the Amagba community, Oredo Local Government Area, as the two men were on their way back from a worksite.
According to multiple reports, the welders encountered gunmen who had just committed a robbery in the area. In a bid to protect themselves, they fled and sought refuge in a nearby house. Unfortunately, local residents mistook them for the robbers, captured them, and subjected them to a fatal attack.
Despite their efforts to plead their innocence, the mob continued the assault, ultimately leading to their deaths. A police investigation later confirmed that the two victims were not involved in the robbery and had simply been at the wrong place at the wrong time. Their employer, who had sent them to the worksite, also verified their innocence.
Following the tragedy, the police apprehended three suspects—Frank Abolo, 37; Samson Odewole, 22; and Happy Ohiowere, 25—accused of participating in the mob violence. Two other suspects are still at large. The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident and stated that the three arrested suspects have been charged with murder.
SP Moses Yamu stated, “The command is aware of the incident in which two young men tragically lost their lives. An investigation was immediately launched, leading to the arrest of three suspects, while two others remain at large. The arrested individuals have already been charged.”
The suspects are facing murder charges, and efforts are ongoing to locate and apprehend the remaining individuals involved.
