Suspected members of a cult group have set ablaze a man identified as Victor, at the Akede area of Osogbo, Osun State.
It was learnt the incident, which occurred around 2pm on Saturday, caused panic in the area. Many residents reportedly fled to avoid being caught in the attack, as Victor struggled with his assailants.
Sources near the scene of the incident said the victim was trailed to the area by men, numbering about nine, who were on three motorcycles.
It was also gathered that before Victor was set ablaze, the assailants shot him several times.
A source said, “They attempted to kill him with machetes, but it didn’t work. They also shot him several times. When all that failed, they doused him with petrol and set him ablaze.
“After the man was set on fire, the attackers, who came to our area on three motorcycles, waited for a few minutes before leaving.”
The source explained that after the attackers left the area, some residents moved to the scene and put out the fire before the victim was taken to a hospital in Osogbo.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola, said police operatives were on the trail of the perpetrators.
She said, “Investigation has commenced into the matter. Members of a cult attacked the victim. They doused him with petrol and set him ablaze.
“Our men are already on the trail of the perpetrators. The victim is believed to be a member of a rival group. He did not die. He was rushed to a hospital.”
PUNCH