A 25-year-old man simply identified as Monday, yesterday escaped lynching after being caught with two live goats allegedly stolen in Obio Ndot, Oruk Anam Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom state.

Monday, who hails from the community but resides in Uyo, was alleged to have sneaked into the village and was caught trying to make away with the goats.

A community source disclosed that the alleged thief, an ex-convict, is known for stealing livestock from the community to sell off in Uyo since returning from prison for similar vices.

He said, “On this occasion, he was caught red-handed by youths in the community. After being given the beating of his life, petrol was being sourced to roast him alive when elders of the community intervened and called in the police who rescued him.

“This same Monday who sells roasted pork in Uyo, had two years ago stolen two goats from the community and was caught trying to move them out on a chartered tricycle (Keke).

“He escaped from the tricycle at that time, leaving the rider arrested and taken to the police station at Abak Divisional headquarters.”

The alleged thief, on this latest allegation confessed to the crime, saying, “It’s hunger that pushed me into this mess, promising to repent if left off the hook.

A senior police officer confirmed the rescue of Monday, noting that, “Investigation is still ongoing and he would be handed over to legal department for prosecution.

“After rescuing him beaten to stupor, he was taken to a private clinic for first aid treatment before being taken to the police station where he is currently cooling his feet,” he said. (Courtesy, excluding headline, Vanguard)

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