Ondo police have arrested 19 suspects over a cult clash in Owo, which left four dead. The state governor imposed a curfew to restore order. Police Commissioner Wilfred Afolabi assured ongoing efforts to apprehend other culprits and emphasized zero tolerance for crime, focusing on disarming illegal firearm holders.
The Ondo State Police Commissioner, Wilfred Afolabi, has announced the arrest of 19 suspects in connection with a violent cult clash in Owo Local Government Area, which left four people dead. The clash prompted Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to enforce a curfew in Owo town. Afolabi shared these details during a press briefing in Akure following his on-site assessment of the incident. He stated that security forces are actively working to apprehend additional individuals involved in the violence, and those in custody will face legal action.
Afolabi emphasized that peace has now been restored in areas affected by the clash, including Eyin Ogbe, Iselu, Ijebu Owo, and the palace vicinity. He also addressed the widespread possession of illegal firearms, acknowledging that this contributes to the ongoing clashes in the state. Afolabi vowed to intensify efforts to disarm individuals holding firearms unlawfully, ensuring the safety of the community.
The commissioner warned criminals to stay away from Ondo, reiterating the police command's commitment to eradicating crime. He further emphasized zero tolerance for indiscipline, including improper influence from traditional rulers and negligent attitudes toward work. Afolabi outlined his priorities of professionalism, intelligence gathering, and human rights. He also announced plans to establish a community safety partnership forum, aiming to foster collaboration between citizens and the police on security matters.
