A suspected armed robber, identified as Saidu Sinah, also known as Ojubintin, was lynched by an angry mob at AP/Akerele Junction in Agege, Lagos State, on March 15, 2025. Sinah was accused of stabbing a middle-aged woman and stealing her mobile phone, prompting the violent reaction from the community.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that a distress call was received at the Isokoko Division at around 6:30 a.m. on the day of the incident. Police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin disclosed that officers were immediately dispatched to the scene, but the mob dispersed upon their arrival.
Details of the Incident
According to Hundeyin, Sinah was found in critical condition and was rushed to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Preliminary investigations revealed that Sinah and his accomplices—who remain at large—allegedly attacked the woman and stole her phone at the junction.
“On March 15, 2025, at about 06:30 hours, a distress call was received at Isokoko Division regarding a suspected armed robber who specialized in snatching mobile phones from commuters. The suspect had been apprehended, severely beaten, and was on the verge of being lynched by an angry mob at AP/Akerele Junction, Agege,” Hundeyin stated.
He added that the injured woman was promptly taken to the hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment. The police have visited the hospital to inspect and photograph her injuries. The corpse of the deceased suspect has been evacuated to a public morgue by the Lagos State Health and Monitoring Unit.
Police Response and Investigation
Hundeyin emphasized that the police are actively working to apprehend Sinah’s accomplices and those who participated in the mob justice. “Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the other members of the gang and individuals who participated in the act of jungle justice. Investigation is in progress,” he said.
The incident highlights the growing frustration among residents over rising crime rates and the perceived inadequacy of law enforcement in addressing such issues. However, the police have warned against vigilante actions, stressing that jungle justice undermines the rule of law and due process.
Implications of Jungle Justice
The lynching of Sinah underscores the dangers of mob justice, which often results in the loss of life without proper legal proceedings. While community members may feel compelled to take matters into their own hands, such actions can lead to unintended consequences, including the targeting of innocent individuals and the escalation of violence.
The Lagos State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents. However, the incident also raises questions about the effectiveness of current security measures and the need for increased police presence in high-crime areas.
Next Steps
The police have vowed to intensify efforts to apprehend the remaining members of Sinah’s gang and bring them to justice. They have also called on residents to report criminal activities to the authorities rather than resorting to vigilante actions.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement and communities in addressing crime and maintaining public order.
