Criminology Graduate Killed After Being Mistaken for a Thief A criminology graduate in Manila was beaten to death by a mob after being mistakenly identified as a cellphone thief. In reality, he was chasing the real thief when bystanders, without verifying the facts, attacked him. He later succumbed to his injuries. Legal Accountability of the Attackers Those who inflicted the fatal injuries may be charged with Homicide or Murder, depending on intent and circumstances. However, if the exact individuals responsible for the fatal blow cannot be determined, they may be held liable under Article 251 (Death Caused in a Tumultuous Affray) of the Revised Penal Code (RPC). What If the Victim Had Survived? If the victim survived but suffered serious injuries, the attackers could be charged under Article 252 (Serious Physical Injuries in a Tumultuous Affray). This applies when: A group attack results in serious injury. The specific individuals responsible cannot be identified. The injury is severe but not fatal. In such cases, all those who participated in the attack may face criminal liability in proportion to their involvement. Mob Justice is Not Justice This case highlights the dangers of acting without facts. Instead of ensuring justice, mob violence leads to wrongful harm and irreversible loss. The law must hold those responsible accountable to prevent similar tragedies. By Atty. Phil Juris