The Kebbi State Police Command has foiled an attempt by an angry mob to lynch two men suspected of motorcycle theft in Gesse Phase 1 area of Birnin Kebbi, recovering seven motorcycles in the process.

The incident occurred on August 26, when the suspects, identified as Rufai Salihu and Aliyu Muhammad, were reportedly attacked by a mob over allegations of motorcycle theft.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, in a press statement on Friday, said police operatives responded swiftly to the incident and rescued the two suspects, who sustained injuries and were subsequently taken to a medical facility for treatment.

According to him, “One Boxer motorcycle was recovered from the suspects, while the situation later escalated when the mob allegedly attempted to attack a police facility in the area.

“Reinforcement was promptly deployed, and the mob was dispersed, while seven motorcycles abandoned during the incident were recovered and impounded,” Usman said.

He added that the two suspects were assisting investigators to establish their alleged involvement in motorcycle theft and identify other individuals who may be connected to the criminal activity.

He explained that the Commissioner of Police, CP Umar M. Hadejia, condemned the resort to jungle justice, urging residents to desist from taking the law into their own hands.

Hadejia said, “Members of the public should allow the Police and other lawful authorities to investigate allegations and bring offenders to justice.”

The Commissioner warned that anyone involved in mob action, attacks on police personnel or facilities, or other forms of self-help would face the full consequences of the law.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property while sustaining its crackdown on motorcycle theft and other forms of criminality across Kebbi State.