The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested Dennis Ali and Ituma Sunday, who are the primary suspects in a disturbing viral video that circulated on social media over the weekend, where two teenage girls were stripped, flogged and dehumanised.

It was gathered that the teenage girls were abused and dehumanised in November 2023 at Ojiegbe, Ngbo community in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of the state.

The girls between the ages of 15 and 16 were accused of stealing fowls and were forced to parade the community naked with the fowls they allegedly stole.

The viral video which started circulating on social media with the inscription, “Share it until it gets to the government authorities. These girls were subjected to inhumane treatment. Criminal cases have legal punishment stipulated in the criminal code,” drew the attention of the police.

In a statement signed by the Police spokesperson, DSP Joshua Ukandu stated that CP Anthonia Uche-Anya’s attention was drawn to the viral video which prompted the immediate arrest of the suspects, noting that the CP upon assuming office, emphasised the need to eradicate trial by ordeal, jungle justice and self-help in criminal justice.

The police boss reaffirmed that the command is committed to eradicating such practices and ensuring that justice is served, adding that the Police will work together with stakeholders to effectively address the root causes of violence and promote a culture of respect and human rights.

See full statement below:

In reply, please quote:

AZ.:5200/EBS/PPRO/VOL.9/6

5th November, 2024

EBONYI STATE POLICE COMMAND.

PRESS RELEASE

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“EBONYI POLICE APPREHENDS SUSPECTS IN VIRAL DEHUMANISATION VIDEO

The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested Dennis Ali and Ituma Sunday, the primary suspects in a disturbing viral video where two teenage girls were stripped, flogged, and dehumanised. The incident occurred in November 2023 at Ojiegbe Ngbo community in Ohaukwu LGA.

Upon assuming office, CP. Anthonia A. Uche-Anya, fdc, emphasised the need to eradicate trial by ordeal, jungle justice, and self-help in criminal justice. She reaffirms the command’s commitment to rooting out such practices in Ebonyi State with stakeholder support.

Furthermore, she assured that those involved will face the full force of the law for their heinous actions.

DSP JOSHUA UKANDU

POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

EBONYI STATE POLICE COMMAND.

ABAKALIKI.