The Plateau State Police Command has arrested some female students after a viral video allegedly showed them attacking another female student. This incident occurred in Pankshin Local Government Area of the state.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, police spokesperson SP Alfred Alabo said in a statement on Friday that Commissioner of Police Ayodeji Faniyan ordered an immediate investigation. This happened after he became aware of the footage.
Police order investigation into viral assault
“Immediately the CP got wind of it, he directed the Area Commander in Pankshin LGC to act immediately, which they have done,” Alabo said.
NAN reported that those involved are students of the Federal University of Education, Pankshin.
Alabo said the arrested students would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department after preliminary investigations.
He added that they would be charged in court once investigations are completed.
Police warn against recording violent attacks
The police spokesperson condemned jungle justice and other forms of violence. Moreover, he warned that people who record and circulate such acts online could also face additional offences.
“In the process of committing this crime, sometimes you will commit several other crimes,” he said.
“It is not just you beating somebody or meting violence against your fellow human being; even having the mind to record it is cybercrime.”
Alabo urged young people and other residents to avoid taking the law into their own hands regardless of the circumstances. These circumstances could be those surrounding a disagreement.
He advised anyone with a grievance to approach the police or another appropriate authority instead of resorting to violence.
“Learn to report to a third party that has the authority to hear your matter and give you the justice that you deserve,” he said.
Police seek public cooperation
Alabo also appealed to residents to continue providing security agencies with timely and credible information. Such information could help prevent disputes from escalating.
He reiterated that the arrested students would be moved to the State CID for further investigation before prosecution.
“Stay clear of jungle justice. Report cases anytime you are aggrieved to the right and appropriate authority,” Alabo said.
