The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended two key suspects in connection with the brutal murder of a young woman whose charred body was found in the Gangare area of Mile 12, Lagos, last Saturday.
The incident initially caused unrest amid rumors that the attack was ethnically motivated. However, thorough investigations have since confirmed that the victim was from Nasarawa State and not a Yoruba woman as previously speculated. She had been residing with relatives near a canal behind Mile 12.
The suspects, whose names have not yet been released, confessed that they were hired by the victim’s estranged boyfriend, following the termination of their relationship under unclear circumstances. The police are actively pursuing the boyfriend, who remains at large.
Lagos State Police spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, provided further details: “Preliminary investigations clearly establish that the victim was from Nasarawa State and not of Yoruba origin. The prolonged dispute between her and her now-fugitive boyfriend, who was intent on forcing her back into the relationship after their breakup, led him to orchestrate a deadly conspiracy involving others. Two of these accomplices have been arrested.
“The woman was ambushed, viciously attacked, murdered, and her body set on fire. This was a cold-blooded, premeditated murder that demands condemnation. Importantly, there was no element of blasphemy or religious provocation linked to her death.
“The Lagos State Police Command acted swiftly to arrest two principal suspects, who are currently detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). They are cooperating with investigators to apprehend the boyfriend and any other involved parties still at large.
“There is no cause for tension or fear of retaliatory ethnic violence in Ketu, Mile 12, or anywhere else in Lagos. Residents are urged to remain calm, go about their lawful activities, and avoid spreading rumors or unverified information that could incite panic.
“The investigation is ongoing, and the police will share findings with the public in due course. The Lagos State Police Command remains steadfast in ensuring the safety and security of all residents and will provide timely updates as the case progresses.”