Probe of Slain Akure Inspector Triggers Random Arrests, Alleged ₦100,000 Extortion
The investigation into the killing of a police inspector in Akure, Ondo State, has triggered widespread arrests and extortion claims, with residents accusing operatives of targeting innocent people across the state capital.
An inspector attached to the B-Division Police Station was stabbed to death on Wednesday by suspected cultists during a disturbance at Oke Arata, beside Arakale.
The officer, who had only recently been transferred from the Anti-Cultism Unit to the division, was reportedly attacked by Oladapo Oluwaseun, popularly known as Choco Milo, a known member of the Eiye Confraternity and an appointee of Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa.
Eyewitnesses also named two other suspects, Shina and Y2K, alleged members of the Aye Confraternity, as part of the trio involved in the attack.
While the motive behind the killing remains unclear and authorities have yet to give an official account of the confrontation, several suspects have already been arrested.
However, fresh information indicates that the investigation has taken a troubling turn.
Residents across parts of Akure metropolis have accused police operatives of indiscriminate arrests and intimidation in the wake of the officer’s death.
Communities such as Odige, Oke Aro, Oke Ijebu, NEPA, Idi Agba and surrounding areas were repeatedly mentioned as places where youths and residents were allegedly picked up at random.
Many of those detained were reportedly taken from their homes, rooms and business premises without any established link to the murdered inspector.
“There have been several disturbing reports that some officers have allegedly leveraged on this unfortunate incident to carry out indiscriminate arrests of youths and residents across parts of Akure metropolis,” a resident said.
“Many of those arrested were said to have been taken from their homes, rooms, and business premises, with no established link to the said murder.”
Even more alarming are allegations that detainees have been told to “bail themselves”, with some reportedly asked for as much as ₦100,000.
Residents fear the tragic death of the inspector is being used as a tool for extortion, despite claims that key suspects have already been apprehended.
“This is particularly troubling given that we understand that some of the prime suspects connected to the crime have already been apprehended,” another source said.
“This amounts to weaponising a tragic incident for personal enrichment. This is clearly against the ethics, discipline and professional standards of the Force.”
Credible reports indicate that some of those arrested are currently being held at the B-Division Police Station, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and other tactical units under the Ondo State Police Command.
The police have yet to issue a formal statement addressing the allegations of indiscriminate arrests or extortion.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
