May 13, (THEWILL) — The Oyo State Police Command has rescued a United States-based medical doctor, identified as Dr. Afolabi, from a mob attack in Ibadan after a false kidnapping alarm triggered violent reactions from residents.
THEWILL gathered that the incident occurred on Monday afternoon around the 2nd Powerline Area of Ologuneru, Ibadan, when operatives attached to the Eleyele Police Station swiftly responded to a distress call and saved the doctor from being lynched by an angry crowd.
According to police findings, the victim and the two girls found inside his vehicle, identified as Deborah and Rebecca, were legally in his custody at the time of the incident.
Investigations revealed that the girls had been sent by their guardian to assist Dr. Afolabi’s mother with household chores, contrary to widespread claims circulated online suggesting an abduction attempt.
Sources disclosed that the misunderstanding began near the Polytechnic gate after security personnel reportedly stopped the doctor’s vehicle and observed that the girls appeared half-naked, a situation that immediately aroused suspicion among bystanders.
The situation reportedly escalated due to communication difficulties arising from a language barrier, while the doctor’s attempt to leave the scene further fueled public suspicion and panic.
An enraged crowd subsequently chased the medical doctor, physically assaulted him, and eventually set his vehicle ablaze before police operatives intervened and rescued him from the mob.
Dr. Afolabi is currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the attack.
The Oyo State Police Command condemned the act of jungle justice, warning residents against taking the law into their hands under any circumstances.
Police authorities also confirmed that a manhunt has commenced for individuals involved in the violent attack and destruction of property.
The command urged residents to always report suspicious activities to security agencies for proper investigation instead of spreading unverified information capable of inciting violence and endangering innocent lives.
The police further stressed the dangers of mob action, noting that false alarms and misinformation, especially on social media, could easily lead to irreversible tragedies.
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