The Imo State Police Command has arrested two men following the circulation of a viral video showing the alleged assault of a young woman and her brother in Okigwe, Imo State.
The incident has generated public concern after footage showing armed men assaulting the two individuals circulated widely on social media.
According to the police, the victims were reportedly travelling to Abia State University when they were accosted in Okigwe.
In a statement issued by the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, the command clarified that the armed men seen in the video were not police officers, contrary to claims circulating alongside the footage.
The command identified the men as personnel of the Imo State Vigilante Organization.
The two suspects were identified as Ejiogu Nchekwube and Caleb Onyebuchi.
Police said both suspects have been arrested and are currently being detained at the Okigwe Divisional Police Headquarters, where investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing.
The Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, psc(+), mnips, reaffirmed the command's commitment to professionalism, accountability and respect for the rights of members of the public.
The commissioner said anyone found culpable after the investigation would face appropriate action in accordance with the law.
The police did not disclose the specific circumstances that led to the confrontation or the motive behind the alleged assault, saying the investigation was still ongoing.
The command appealed to members of the public to remain calm and avoid spreading information that has not been independently verified.
The police urged residents and social-media users to rely on official channels for updates concerning the investigation.
The command said further information would be made available as investigators make progress.
The development comes amid continued public scrutiny of the activities of vigilante groups operating alongside conventional security agencies in parts of the country.
The police clarification is expected to help distinguish the personnel shown in the viral footage from members of the Nigeria Police Force while the investigation determines what happened and whether additional individuals should face prosecution.
The two suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue.
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