The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended two students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), over their alleged involvement in the conspiracy and rape of a 20-year-old female undergraduate.
Police spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, describing the incident as another demonstration of the command’s strengthened resolve to curb violent and sexual crimes across the state.
According to the police, preliminary findings indicated that the victim was lured to the residence of her longtime friend, Queen Sodo, a 19-year-old student of the institution.
Ayanlade explained that the victim, who had been acquainted with Sodo since their secondary school days, unsuspectingly consumed a drink later discovered to have been laced with drugs, leaving her unconscious.
“After noticing the victim had become incapacitated, Queen Sodo reportedly left the room, invited her male accomplice, and kept watch while the crime occurred,” he said.
The situation reportedly drew the attention of a neighbour, who heard disturbing sounds and rushed into the apartment, only to meet the victim unconscious beside the male suspect.
The victim was immediately taken for urgent medical attention and later moved to a specialist facility, where she is said to be responding to treatment.
“Both suspects have confessed to their involvement and described their specific roles in the crime,” he said.
The police added that crucial exhibits, including the suspected drug-laced drink, were recovered and positively identified by both the victim and the suspects.
Ayanlade noted that the suspects are in lawful custody and will be transferred to the Gender Desk Office for detailed investigation and arraignment.
“The command assures the public that offenders will face the full weight of the law, regardless of familiarity with their victims,” he said.
He urged parents and guardians to continually educate their children about maintaining caution in relationships, stressing that even long-term friendships may be manipulated for criminal purposes.