ACJL Working Group demands full investigation after woman accused of child theft is murdered while in police custody
The Kaduna State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) State Level Working Group has expressed profound shock and deep concern over the brutal killing of a woman accused of child theft by a mob in Maraban Jos, Kaduna State.
The victim was reportedly seized and murdered while under police custody—a development that has sparked outrage among justice sector stakeholders and reignited concerns over the prevalence of mob justice in the state.
In a statement issued on 23 June 2026, the Chairman of the Working Group, Dr Terngu Gwar, condemned what he described as a “barbaric act” that constitutes a direct assault on the rule of law and the fundamental rights of citizens.
“It is particularly disturbing that the victim was reportedly under police custody at the time of the attack,” Dr Gwar stated. “Once an individual is taken into lawful custody, the responsibility for ensuring their safety and protection rests with the State. The unlawful seizure and killing of a suspect from custody raises serious concerns about the security of persons in police custody and the integrity of criminal justice processes.”
The Working Group emphasised that the Administration of Criminal Justice Law guarantees every accused person the right to due process, fair hearing, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court of law.
“Allegations, no matter how grave, do not justify extrajudicial punishment. No citizen or group of citizens has the authority to dispense justice through violence,” the statement read.
Call for Urgent Action
The Working Group has called for:
· A comprehensive, transparent, and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident
· Immediate identification, arrest, and prosecution of all individuals involved in the mob action
· An inquiry into the breach of police custody and failure to adequately protect the suspect
· Appropriate administrative and disciplinary measures where negligence or dereliction of duty is established against any public officer
· Enhanced security measures at police stations and detention facilities across Kaduna State
Appeal for Calm and Education
While commending law enforcement agencies for their efforts in maintaining public order, the Working Group urged them to ensure justice is served without fear or favour.
Community leaders, traditional institutions, religious figures, youth groups, and civil society organisations have been called upon to intensify public education on the dangers of mob justice and the importance of allowing law enforcement agencies and the courts to perform their constitutional responsibilities.
“The recurrence of mob violence poses a significant threat to public safety, social cohesion, and confidence in the justice system,” the statement warned. “It is imperative that all stakeholders work together to promote respect for the rule of law and to reject all forms of extrajudicial actions.”
The Working Group reaffirmed its commitment to advancing a criminal justice system that is fair, accountable, efficient, and respectful of human rights.
“We extend our condolences to the family of the deceased and urge all citizens to remain calm while the relevant authorities carry out a thorough investigation,” Dr Gwar added. “Justice must be administered in the courtroom, not on the streets.”