Another Suspected Thief Found Dead in Calabar as Jungle Justice Fears Grow

Residents of Calabar, Cross River State, woke up on Wednesday to the sight of another lifeless body dumped along the Mbukpa–Eyo Ita axis, sparking renewed concerns about rising crime and mob justice in the city.

The unidentified young man was found with bruises and bloodstains, suggesting he may have been beaten to death. It marks the second such discovery in a week, following the recovery of a decomposing corpse around Marian axis of the metropolis last week.

Eyewitnesses said the victim was likely a suspected thief who was overpowered by vigilante youths in the area. Many residents expressed fear that criminal activities, particularly by gangs locally referred to as Iron Condemned, were escalating and threatening safety.

“These ‘Iron Condemned’ boys are notorious for stealing electric wires, soup pots, aluminum, and even old televisions from people’s homes,” said community youth leader, Etetim Young.

However, some residents defended the community’s actions, citing weak trust in law enforcement. Agnes Akpan, an eyewitness, explained: “When suspects are handed to the police, they are often released soon enough. This puts those who reported them in danger once they are back.”

The Cross River Police Command, however, condemned the killings. Police spokesperson Irene Ugbo reiterated that jungle justice is a crime and urged communities to hand over suspects to the authorities. “We don’t encourage jungle justice in any way. Suspects must always be handed to the police for proper prosecution. What if they kill innocent persons?” she asked.

The repeated discovery of corpses in Calabar highlights the growing tension between communities battling rising crime and the dangers of taking the law into their own hands.