This weekly update highlights mob justice in the Niger Delta with a focus on vigilantism and mob violence in Imo State. According to data, vigilantism and mob violence caused over 45 reported fatalities in Imo State between January 2016 and June 2020. Recent data indicates an increase in reported incidents of mob violence in Imo State.

Kidnapping for ransom in Edo State – July 12-18, 2020

In March 2020, for instance, a mob reportedly lynched a man for allegedly killing his younger brother in Umuduru village, Ehime Mbano LGA. In April, two young men, including a police constable, were reportedly stripped and beaten by a mob over alleged homosexual acts in Umueze community, Orlu LGA. In May, a 34-year old man was reportedly beaten to death by a gang of cultists hired to deal with him for allegedly having an intimate relationship with a married woman in Ihie community, Ohaji/Egbema LGA. Following the incident, a mob of youths reportedly burned six houses belonging to the families of the suspected cultists. Recently, on July 21, 2020, two male robbery suspects were reportedly burned to death by a mob in Obodo-Ujichi town, Ahiazu Mbaise LGA.

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