CAN POLICE ARREST YOU JUST BECAUSE YOU WERE AT THE SCENE OF A CRIME?

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A question many people ask: Madam Law, if I’m standing somewhere and a crime happens, can police arrest me too?

Let’s clear the air 👇

⚖️ The Law:

  1. Mere Presence is not Guilt
    Simply being at the scene does not make you a criminal. The law requires evidence linking you to the offence such as participation, aiding, or assisting.
  2. Suspicion vs. Proof
    Police may invite or even arrest people found at the scene for investigation, but suspicion alone is not proof.
  3. Accomplice Rule
    If you helped in any way like driving the criminals, hiding weapons, or serving as lookout you can be charged as an accomplice.
  4. Right to Fair Hearing
    Even if arrested, you have the right to remain silent, demand a lawyer, and not be punished without trial.

🍲 Pepper Soup Wisdom:
Being at the wrong place at the wrong time can put you in hot soup, but only real evidence can cook you fully.

Source: Legal Matters with Bar Ronke Ahaotu