A highly disturbing video has gone viral on social media in Benin and beyond, sparking widespread outrage. The footage shows a woman who is completely naked, tied and suspended above a deliberately lit fire. Her legs are spread open, with her genitals directly exposed to the flames as she screams in agony.The perpetrators can be heard speaking in a local dialect, but the exact motive behind the brutal act remains unclear at this stage. Many online commentators have described it as possible vigilante punishment, reportedly linked to accusations of theft (such as stealing a phone), though this has not been officially confirmed.

On April 23, 2026, Benin’s Police Républicaine issued an official statement confirming they have launched an investigation to verify the authenticity of the video, identify the individuals involved, and bring those responsible to justice.