Police arrest 32 over Ondo communal clash
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 32 individuals linked to the violence that erupted on Sunday evening in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of the state.
The clash, which occurred between the Owake and Ebo communities, resulted in the loss of two lives, multiple injuries, and the destruction of several buildings.
On Tuesday, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Wilfred Afolabi, visited the affected communities alongside senior officers.
He revealed that the suspects would soon face prosecution, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
“We currently have 32 suspects in custody. So far, the records indicate that two people were reportedly killed. At this stage, it’s very disappointing, truly disheartening. This crisis didn’t come out of nowhere; it was created,” Afolabi said.
The Commissioner expressed regret over the situation, highlighting its impact on the daily lives of residents.
“Look around, how many people do you see? That’s what peace is about. Once it’s lost, even simple activities like going to the farm become difficult. A lot of things get paralyzed.
“My advice to those fueling this crisis is to embrace peace. In the end, when the chips are down, they will be the ones to lose,” he warned.
Afolabi praised the swift action of the police in containing the crisis, noting that the timely deployment of officers prevented further escalation.
However, he pointed out that the conflict arose suddenly, with no prior signs of trouble.
“This crisis started when youths from Igbo went on a hunting expedition in Owake. Unfortunately, they were mistaken as individuals involved in a land dispute, but they were innocent. Following that, they were attacked, and that incident became the genesis of this conflict,” he explained.
According to the police chief, the suspects were apprehended during the unrest, with substantial evidence linking them to the acts of violence.
He assured that the law would take its course.
“These arrests weren’t random, many of them were caught in the act. I can assure you they will face prosecution. The evidence against them is overwhelming, and I’m confident we will secure convictions. This will keep them out of circulation for a while and hopefully, it will serve as a lesson to pursue peace,” he stated.
In the wake of the violence, many residents have fled the affected areas, fearing further attacks or arrests.
The few remaining in the communities are primarily children and elderly individuals.
