A man was reportedly set ablaze by an angry mob in Abagu, Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State, after being caught attempting to steal a motorcycle in the early hours of Sunday.

Eyewitnesses told DAILY POST that the suspect was apprehended while trying to steal a parked motorcycle. Despite pleas from a few onlookers, the mob overpowered any intervention and set the man on fire, sparking panic in the neighborhood.

The incident came just a day after commercial motorcyclists, known locally as Okada riders, staged protests in Gboko, demanding an end to alleged harassment and extortion by security operatives.

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Residents said the violent episode unfolded around dawn, drawing a crowd before security personnel arrived at the scene. The victim’s remains were later removed, and normalcy has reportedly returned to the area.

Authorities have yet to issue a statement regarding the incident, raising concerns about vigilante justice and public safety in the community.