In a distressing incident at Kwaita village market in Kwali Area Council of the FCT, a man known only as Shehu faced a violent assault by a mob over allegations of stealing a woman’s handbag.
The incident, which unfolded approximately at 9:35 am within the bustling bushmeat section of the market, was recounted by a witness during a visit by our reporter on Wednesday.
According to the witness, Mrs Patience Ayuba, a restaurant owner in the vicinity, became a victim while engrossed in purchasing bushmeat. Amidst the crowd of customers, the suspect cunningly seized the opportunity, posing as a buyer, and surreptitiously snatched Ayuba’s handbag.
Detailing the sequence of events, the witness explained, “As the woman withdrew money to settle her purchase, the man feigned interest in making a purchase and discreetly made off with the bag.”
Upon realising the loss of her belongings, Ayuba raised an alarm, prompting the immediate attention of fellow market-goers. A swift pursuit ensued, culminating in the apprehension of the suspect as he attempted to flee, crossing the highway in his bid to escape.
Members of the vigilant community intervened, wresting the accused from the grasp of the mob. An anonymous vigilante member disclosed that the suspect was subsequently handed over to the local police stationed at the Kwali division.
Further investigation by City & Crime revealed a similar incident occurring the previous week, where a suspected motorcycle thief narrowly avoided a lynching. The perpetrator, caught in the act of tampering with a motorcycle’s ignition, faced a similar fate after the owner raised an alarm, thwarting the attempted theft.
These occurrences underscore the prevalent vigilance and swift community response to instances of crime within the market, reflecting a collective resolve to maintain security and order in the area.
