CALABAR, Nigeria – The Cross River State Police Command has arrested 26 individuals for their alleged involvement in the killing of Martina Itagbor, who was accused of practicing witchcraft.
The police spokesperson, SP Irene Ugbo, released a statement to the press in Calabar on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, reporting that the suspects were arrested at various locations within Cross River State.
The command has initiated an investigation into the incident to ascertain the level of involvement of each of the suspects.
The Commissioner of Police, Gyogon Grimah, has ordered the immediate prosecution of those found responsible for the brutal killing of Mrs. Itagbor.
The Trent recalled that Mrs. Itagbor was accused by the suspects of being responsible for the deaths of some young individuals in a car accident.
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This accusation led to a group of local youths attacking Mrs. Itagbor in the Netim community, situated in the Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Mrs. Itagbor, a mother of four, was reportedly beaten and subsequently burned alive.
SP Irene Ugbo emphasized the police’s determination to bring justice to this case.
She stated, “We stand unwavering in our resolve and unyielding to any obstacle that may hinder the police from unraveling the depth of this matter.”
This incident reflects the need for community awareness and education on the dangers of mob justice and the importance of the rule of law.
The police command urged the public to report suspicious activities and to trust the judicial system for fair judgment.
