Beating a Thief Can Still Leave You Facing Assault Charges

If you catch someone stealing your phone and beat them severely, the person can still take legal action against you. A theft allegation does not remove a suspect’s constitutional right to freedom from assault, torture, or degrading treatment. Under Nigerian law, theft and assault are treated separately. The suspect may be prosecuted for stealing, while anyone who attacks them may also face criminal charges for assault, grievous harm, or homicide if the person dies. They may also be sued for compensation over the injuries caused. You may use reasonable and proportionate force to defend yourself or another person, prevent a crime, or make a lawful arrest. But once the person is restrained, the property has been recovered, or the threat has ended, continued beating is unlikely to be justified. A thief should answer for theft through the legal system. Mob justice can turn a victim of theft into a defendant in court.

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