Residents of Anambra State have expressed outrage following a video that surfaced online, showing the state vigilante outfit, Udo Gachi, assaulting a lady in Oba town.
In the viral video obtained by Wazobia FM, armed operatives of the Udo Gachi could be seen hitting the lady and simultaneously stripping her naked as she ran into a gated compound.
Sources say the lady and other residents attempted to prevent the operatives from arresting some internet fraudsters known as ‘Yahoo Boys’ living within the compound.
The family did not speak with Wazobia FM or Nigeria Info, opting to allow the matter slip.
The Anambra State Police Command has condemned the assault, noting that the suspects have been identified. The victim's unavailability has, however, temporarily stalled the ongoing investigation process.
The Command's spokesman, Tochukwu Ikenga, assured Corps members in Anambra State of the police's unwavering commitment to their protection, urging them to report any harassment, intimidation, or abuse for prompt intervention.
Anambra Residents React
Meanwhile, citizens of the state have reacted angrily to the actions of the Udo Gachi operatives, insisting that they had no right to treat the corps member in a dehumanizing manner.
A lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Dr. Chidi Obi, said the operatives acted against the constitution and the right to the integrity of the human.
“This is all shades of wrong," he said. Since I watched that video, I have been shivering because it was so dehumanizing.
“Being a law enforcement operative makes it more imperative that you should watch your conduct,” he added.
A civil servant, Laura Iheji, called for the disbandment of the security outfit, citing numerous 'atrocities' they are reported to have committed, including the killing and maiming of innocent citizens.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, has confirmed that the culprits have been arrested.
Revealing that the incident happened in July, Emeakayi disclosed that the operatives were detained.
“Our practice is to first carry out preliminary investigations, bring in the victims and complainants, and then determine whether the matter warrants internal disciplinary action or prosecution,” he said.
Mr. Emeakayi explained that the assault occurred during a joint security operation, when officers pursuing suspected cultists on motorcycles entered a residential compound.
“The operatives were on the trail of some suspected cultists riding on motorcycles when they pursued them into a compound.
“In the process of searching the houses in line with their mandate, the unfortunate incident involving the corps member occurred.
“While they were acting within the law, their conduct in that instance was unacceptable,” he stated.
