The Enugu State Police Command has launched a manhunt for suspects involved in the alleged torture of a 60-year-old woman after a disturbing video of the incident went viral on social media.
The victim, identified as Chinenye Okonkwo, was allegedly assaulted in Amafu Village, Ugbawka, in Nkanu East Local Government Area of Enugu State after being accused of witchcraft.
Commissioner of Police, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has ordered the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to investigate the incident and ensure everyone involved is brought to justice.
Police spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said officers from the Nkanu East Police Division had visited the victim and recorded her statement after the video surfaced online.
According to preliminary police findings, the woman was allegedly subjected to severe abuse, including being forced to eat human faeces, over claims that she was responsible for the death of her husband’s brother’s wife.
The police said the suspects fled the community after the incident, but efforts are ongoing to identify and arrest them.
CP Giwa condemned the alleged attack and described the treatment of the elderly woman as unacceptable.
He directed investigators to carry out a thorough investigation and intensify efforts to arrest all those involved in the incident.
The Commissioner also warned residents against taking the law into their own hands through jungle justice or any form of self-help.
He assured the public that anyone found guilty would face the full weight of the law.
The incident has drawn widespread public condemnation, with many Nigerians calling for justice for the victim and an end to violence linked to witchcraft accusations.