The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the assault of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Jennifer Elobor, by operatives of a state-backed security outfit.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, police revealed that investigations into the incident had been hindered by the victim’s failure to appear before investigators.

PUNCH Online had earlier reported a viral video showing the moment armed security operatives stormed a corps members’ lodge, accusing them of being internet fraudsters despite presenting their NYSC identification cards and uniforms.

In the footage, Elobor was brutally assaulted and publicly stripped as the operatives continued to beat her despite her pleas for mercy. The incident sparked outrage across social media, with many Nigerians condemning the act and demanding justice.

According to the police, the suspects involved in the assault have already been identified and arrested.

“The Command notes that the alleged victim’s unavailability has temporarily stalled the ongoing investigative process,” the statement read.

The police further stressed that assault in any form constitutes a criminal offence under Nigerian law and assured that necessary legal steps would be taken to aid court proceedings, even as efforts to reach the victim continue.

Reassuring corps members of their safety, the Command urged them to promptly report incidents of harassment or abuse. It also warned vigilante groups and other security outfits against brutality or misuse of authority, vowing that such misconduct would not be tolerated.