A farmer has been taken into police custody in Delta State over the alleged killing of a man accused of stealing palm fruits, in an incident that later triggered a reprisal attack which claimed another life.
The arrest was made by operatives of the Isiokolo Police Division in Ethiope East Local Government Area following the violent episode in Okpara Waterside community.
The suspect, identified simply as Benjamin, allegedly accused the deceased, Marvis, of repeatedly stealing palm fruits, locally known as banga, from his farm.
Sources in the community said the incident began on Tuesday when the victim was allegedly taken from his father’s residence by the suspect and several accomplices to a building within the community, where he was severely beaten over the theft allegation.
Witnesses claimed the assailants briefly attempted to revive the victim after he lost consciousness by giving him a malt drink before allegedly continuing the assault. He was later confirmed dead.
It was further gathered that the victim’s body was subsequently dumped at his father’s compound.
The killing reportedly sparked outrage among the deceased’s associates, believed to include suspected cult members, who stormed the community in search of those linked to the attack.
During the unrest, another resident identified as Rawlings was allegedly shot dead after attempting to appeal for calm.
Police recovered the bodies of both deceased persons and deposited them in a mortuary, while investigations into the incident continue.
Community sources said the violence has created divisions among residents and members of the local vigilante group, with some defending the farmer’s actions and others condemning the mob attack that led to the suspect’s death.
It was also alleged that some of the individuals who participated in the assault were hoodlums from neighbouring communities in Delta State, while several suspects have reportedly fled to avoid arrest.
The prime suspect was said to have reported himself to the police before the victim eventually died from the injuries sustained during the beating.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, said he would verify the details of the incident before making an official statement.