Edo State Police Command has commenced an investigation into a viral assault incident involving students of Igbinedion Secondary School, following widespread outrage over a disturbing video circulating on social media.
The footage shows two students violently attacking a younger boy, believed to be in a junior class, as they repeatedly beat, kicked, and dragged him across the floor.
In the video, one of the attackers is seen using a belt during the assault, while another stomps on the victim’s chest, leaving the boy crying and screaming in pain. A voice believed to belong to another student recording the incident can also be heard pleading with the attackers to stop.
The exact circumstances that led to the assault remain unclear.
Reacting to the incident in a statement issued on Sunday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said police authorities are fully aware of the video and have moved swiftly to begin a formal inquiry.
According to her, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, directed the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area to visit the school and carry out a detailed investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police has directed the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area to proceed to the school and commence a detailed inquiry into the matter,” she stated.
She added that despite disciplinary measures already taken by the school, the police have launched a full-scale investigation to ensure all those responsible are held accountable.
“Notwithstanding the action taken by the school, the Edo State Police Command has commenced a comprehensive investigation into the incident,” Ikoedem said.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that the school management confirmed that the students involved in the bullying incident had been expelled as part of sanctions imposed by the institution.
Condemning all forms of bullying, violence, and intimidation in schools, the command assured the public that anyone found culpable would be dealt with in accordance with the law, taking into account the ages of those involved.
The command also appealed for calm and urged residents to support ongoing investigations by providing credible information through its emergency and complaint response lines.
