Two Anambra revenue agents were set ablaze by a mob in Onitsha after their actions led to a bystander’s death. The incident highlights growing frustrations over aggressive revenue collection methods in the state.
On Friday, chaos erupted in Onitsha, Anambra State, as an irate mob set ablaze two revenue collectors blamed for the death of a bystander. The incident occurred at Old Market Road along Venn Road by Egerton, when a tipper driver lost control of his vehicle after struggling with the agents, resulting in the bystander's immediate death.
Eyewitness accounts and videos circulating online revealed the mob apprehending the agents, beating them severely before setting them ablaze. Four other agents reportedly escaped.
A witness stated, "The revenue collectors, about six in number, were chasing the tipper driver for a payment dispute. In their attempt to seize control of the vehicle, it veered off, killing a passerby." The aftermath provoked outrage, as residents lamented the recurrent violence linked to these agents.
Another trader added, "These incidents have become too frequent. The agents’ reckless actions have cost too many lives."
The police, led by spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident, noting the swift response of the Anambra Police Command to control the situation. He assured ongoing investigations to address the tragedy and prevent future occurrences.
Videos of the burnt bodies of the agents have sparked widespread reactions online, with many calling for stricter regulation of revenue collection practices in the state.
