Benue: Woman lynched by angry mob in Agatu over alleged witchcraft

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two individuals in connection with the murder of an elderly woman accused of witchcraft in Egba village, Agatu Local Government Area.

According to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene, the arrested suspects, Bako (50) and Oyaje Clement (40), are alleged to have been involved in the killing, which occurred on Christmas Eve.

Anene condemned the incident, calling it a disturbing example of mob justice that targets elderly people accused of witchcraft. She highlighted the growing concern of young individuals taking the law into their own hands and killing older citizens based on such accusations.

“On December 24, 2024, at approximately 7:00 p.m., we received reports of the killing of an elderly woman in Egba village over witchcraft allegations,” Anene stated. “After an investigation, two suspects were arrested in connection with the crime.”

She reiterated the police’s commitment to ending such acts of mob justice and bringing the responsible individuals to justice. Anene also urged the public to avoid engaging in jungle justice and instead report such crimes to the authorities.