Angry mob sets suspected robber ablaze in Warri

Barely two weeks after four criminal suspects were set on fire at various locations in Warri, Delta State, another angry mob yesterday burnt to death a middle-aged suspect in Warri after an unsuccessful attempt to rob a pregnant woman.

The deceased, identified as Emma Blue, was set ablaze at the First Marine Gate junction in Warri/Sapele road, Warri South Local Council.
The alleged criminal was said to have been picked up by the mob on Sunday night and held hostage till Monday before he was publicly “roasted.”
The incident caused heavy traffic gridlock on the busy Warri/Sapele while sympathisers watched with pity.

The suspect was described as a notorious criminal always marauding the area, preying on his victims. A witness, who spoke with newsmen, said “Emma Blue was a notorious criminal in this area; he has been arrested several times and released by the police.

This time around, he went to rob and was caught in the process. They should continue to burn them to serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.
When contacted, the Divisional Police Officer, Warri B Division, CSP Anniette Eyoh, said before he mobilised to the scene, the suspected armed robber had been set ablaze, adding that he had to file a report to the Commissioner of Police regarding the jungle justice meted on the suspect.

Another witness said the reign of jungle justice on criminals in Warri would stamp out the menace of robbery in the city. According to him, setting criminals ablaze is good because people don’t have much confidence in the police.When a criminal is arrested, before you know it, he is released.”