IG Disu Directs Police to Treat Mob Actions as Homicide

Inspector General of Police Tunji Disu has issued a directive to state police commands across Nigeria to classify all instances of mob action as homicide. He warned that anyone involved in jungle justice, including those who physically assault or kill suspects, as well as those who organize or encourage such actions, will face criminal prosecution.

This directive was prompted by disturbing videos of mob attacks circulating on social media and ongoing concerns about extrajudicial killings in Nigeria. Disu highlighted that individuals who film and share these events or obstruct police intervention are also liable.

He referenced specific legal provisions, including Section 319 of the Criminal Code and Section 221 of the Penal Code, which impose severe penalties for murder. The statement follows the July 26 killing of 25-year-old Ibrahim Mbaya, who was attacked in Jos after being accused of stealing an iPhone 12.

Disu urged citizens to report suspected criminals to law enforcement instead of resorting to mob justice, promising thorough investigations to hold perpetrators accountable.