The Police in Ebonyi State have recently presented two individuals, Dennis Ali and Ituma Sunday, as suspects in a deeply disturbing case involving the alleged dehumanization of two teenage girls. The arrests were made following the emergence of a shocking viral video that depicted the two girls being stripped, flogged, and subjected to degrading treatment.

According to a statement released on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, this troubling incident occurred in November 2023 within the Ojiegbe Ngbo community, located in the Ohaukwu Local Government area of the state. The video, which only went viral over the past weekend, surfaced more than a year after the actual events took place. It was subsequently shared with the State Police Commissioner and other law enforcement personnel, prompting the swift action that led to the apprehension of the suspects on Monday.

DSP Ukandu further revealed that the victims, aged between 15 and 16 years, endured horrific treatment that violates the laws protecting minors in Nigeria. He emphasized that such criminal acts are subject to severe legal penalties under the country’s criminal code. “If anyone is caught in such a situation, they should be promptly handed over to the police,” he stated, condemning the harsh treatment meted out to the vulnerable girls.

Additionally, he highlighted that upon assuming her role, the Commissioner of Police, Anthonia Uche-Anya, had prioritized the fight against trial by ordeal, jungle justice, and self-help approaches within the criminal justice system. She has reiterated the commitment of the police force to eradicate these unlawful practices in Ebonyi State, with the support of various stakeholders. The police are resolute in their determination to ensure that those involved in this heinous act will face the full weight of the law.