A chilling case of brutality has sent shockwaves across Lagos as three suspects were arrested by the police for the gruesome torture of a female employee at Don Meserati Classic Boutique in Lekki. The horrifying incident, which was captured on video, has sparked outrage nationwide.
The Lagos State Police, in an official statement on Monday, revealed that the suspects were apprehended after a viral video surfaced online, showing the victim being beaten mercilessly by a group of men allegedly working under the orders of the boutique’s owner. The attack, reportedly linked to an accusation of theft, has raised serious questions about human rights and the safety of workers in private establishments.
Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PRO), CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest of three individuals in connection with the assault. However, he assured the public that efforts were underway to capture the remaining suspects involved in the torture. Hundeyin also emphasized the police’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice, stating that “justice will be served.”
“We have arrested three suspects, and we are doing everything possible to ensure the others are brought in as well. We are also working to establish contact with the victim and provide necessary support,” Hundeyin said in a tweet on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).
The shocking footage, initially shared by SaharaReporters, depicts a horrific scene where the young woman is seen writhing in pain on the floor as several men lash her with whips. The video has sparked widespread condemnation, with social media users calling for swift action against those responsible.
Outrage and Call for Justice
The incident quickly became the focus of public discourse, with human rights groups, politicians, and concerned citizens all demanding accountability for the perpetrators. The Take It Back (TIB) Movement, a prominent human rights organization, condemned the assault in the strongest possible terms. In a statement, the group labeled the act as “barbaric” and called on the Nigerian Police to conduct a thorough investigation.
“The brutal attack on this innocent young woman is beyond reprehensible. It is an affront to human dignity and the values of our society,” the TIB stated. “We demand that those behind this atrocity face the full wrath of the law.”
The TIB further urged law enforcement to ensure the safety of the victim and provide her with the necessary support to recover from the traumatic experience. “We stand with the victim and call for swift justice,” the group added.
A Disturbing Trend of Abuse in the Workplace
This incident is not an isolated case but rather highlights a disturbing trend of abuse in workplaces across Nigeria. Despite growing awareness of workers’ rights and the need for a safer working environment, incidents of exploitation, harassment, and violence remain rampant. Experts have called for a broader societal shift and a review of existing labor laws to safeguard employees from such horrors.
Reports have indicated that the victim, whose identity remains protected, was accused of stealing from the boutique—a charge that was allegedly the basis for the savage beating. However, there has been no official confirmation from the boutique or the police regarding the truth of the allegations.
Reactions from the Public
The video has sparked public outrage, with many citizens expressing their anger and disbelief at the violent attack. On social media, hashtags like #JusticeForLagosVictim and #StopTheTorture trended as people rallied behind the victim and called for justice.
As the police continue their investigation, attention is focused on identifying the remaining suspects and understanding the full scope of the crime. CSP Hundeyin confirmed that the police have already been in touch with the victim’s family and are working to provide her with the necessary care.
“We have been in contact with the family, and we are doing everything to ensure the victim is safe and well-supported,” Hundeyin said. “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that justice is done.”
The police are also looking into the role of the boutique’s owner, whose involvement in allegedly ordering the assault is still under investigation. The police spokesperson assured the public that no stone would be left unturned in the quest for justice.
“The law will take its course. We will investigate all leads, including the owner of the boutique, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Hundeyin concluded.
