False Kidnap Alarm Leads to Mob Attack on Ondo Rider

On Wednesday, June 4, 2023, a false kidnapping alarm triggered a violent mob attack on a motorcyclist in Ondo, Nigeria. The incident began when a woman identified as Miss Abigael Bright accused the rider of attempting to kidnap her, which caused panic among residents and passersby.

The situation escalated as the accusation spread on social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp, leading to a mob descending on the rider and subjecting him to severe beatings. The Ondo State Police Command, led by DSP Abayomi Jimoh, intervened and confirmed that the kidnapping allegations were unfounded.

The police took the suspect into custody to assist with the investigation, while the injured motorcyclist received medical attention. Commissioner Felix Ohagwu expressed concern over the increasing spread of false alarms and warned of the grave consequences, including mob violence and loss of innocent lives.

He condemned the act of jungle justice and urged residents to report suspicious activities to security agencies for proper investigation.