- Residents of Port Harcourt were shocked by the discovery of a mutilated body near Ikoku market, raising concerns about security
- Police confirmed the victim was a known burglar, suggesting mob justice led to his death amid ongoing investigations into the incident
Residents of Port Harcourt were shocked on Saturday morning when a body was found mutilated near the busy Ikoku market. The lifeless man, estimated to be in his early 40s, was discovered with multiple machete wounds, missing parts, and severe injuries, creating a horrific scene.
The body, lying near a new-generation bank at Ayama Junction along Olu-Obasanjo Road, was reportedly not there the night before.
Eyewitnesses who stumbled upon the body early Saturday described it as “a horrifying sight,” noting the brutal machete cuts and missing organs. “We couldn’t identify him,” one observer mentioned, adding that his identity remains unknown.
As word spread, onlookers gathered, capturing the shocking scene on their phones, while others stood in disbelief.
Reacting to the discovery, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, confirmed receiving a report of the unidentified body around 10:30 a.m. on November 9, 2024.
She detailed the police response, explaining that the deceased was allegedly known in the area for burglary and theft. Preliminary investigations suggest he may have been attacked by a mob while attempting a crime, leading to his abandonment on the road, where a fast-moving vehicle reportedly inflicted additional injuries.
SP Iringe-Koko further clarified that all vital organs were intact when police arrived. She assured the public that the body has been taken for examination and that investigations are ongoing.
“We urge anyone with information to come forward to help with our inquiry,” she added, emphasizing the commitment of the Rivers State Police to maintaining peace and justice in the community.