40 suspects arrested over Ondo policeman’s killing

Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adebowale Lawal. Photo: Nigeria Police Force

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested no fewer than 40 persons in connection with the killing of one of its officers on Wednesday.

The policeman, who was said to be an inspector, was reportedly stabbed to death at the Arakale Area of Akure, the state capital.

PUNCH Metro gathered that the deceased, whose identity had not been revealed as of the time of filing this report, had an altercation with some people in the area, which led to a fight as one of the suspects allegedly stabbed him. He was said to have given up the ghost at the hospital on Wednesday evening.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Olayinka Ayanlade, who confirmed the incident on Thursday, said two of the suspects had a direct connection with the incident, while 38 others were under profiling.

According to the police spokesman, the two principal suspects are Shina Jacob, aged 25 and Felix Olalekan, aged 32.

He said, “The command confirms that an incident occurred in the early hours of yesterday involving a police officer who was performing lawful duty in the said area. An altercation ensued between the officer and some recalcitrant individuals, during which the officer was tragically stabbed. This unfortunate event triggered an immediate and coordinated police response.

“Acting swiftly, the Commissioner of Police deployed a team of operatives to the scene, resulting in the arrest of two suspects directly connected to the incident. We now have two principal offenders and 38 others that we are profiling to know the level of their involvement.

“The injured officer was also rescued and rushed to the hospital; however, despite all efforts, the police inspector sadly passed away while receiving treatment. The follow-up operation conducted last night formed part of the command’s sustained and strategic efforts to rid the state of violent criminal elements and prevent further breaches of public safety.”

The PPRO declared that “the command will not tolerate any form of human rights abuse by its officers, just as it will deal decisively with anyone who assaults or attacks police officers in the course of their lawful duties.”

Ayanlade further stated that the suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The incident came a few days after  a mentally-derailed man killed an officer of the state command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.

PUNCH Metro reports that the deceased was allegedly stabbed to death by the 19-year-old suspect during a struggle between them.