The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the death of a police inspector who was fatally stabbed during an encounter with suspected hoodlums in the Arakale area of Akure, the state capital.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, prompted an immediate security response that led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be connected to the incident.
In a statement issued, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, said the Command felt compelled to address misleading reports trending on social media about supposed widespread unrest in the area.
According to the PPRO:
“The attention of the Ondo State Police Command has been drawn to misleading and unverified stories circulating on social media alleging widespread attacks in the Arakale area of Akure. These unfounded reports appear to be a deliberate attempt by some individuals to distort facts and undermine the security advancements recently achieved across the state.”
DSP Ayanlade explained that the slain officer was on lawful duty when he encountered some “recalcitrant individuals,” an encounter that escalated into a violent confrontation.
“To set the record straight, 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,” the statement read.
The officer was quickly evacuated by operatives and taken to a hospital but died despite medical efforts to save him.
The PPRO added that the Commissioner of Police deployed additional officers to the scene, leading to the arrest of Shina Jacob, 25, and Felix Olalekan, 32, both of whom are said to have played roles in the attack.
“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… however, despite all efforts, the police inspector sadly passed away while receiving treatment,” the Command said.
He noted that follow up operations carried out on Wednesday night were part of ongoing efforts to dismantle violent criminal networks and prevent further threats to public safety.
The Command also restated its position that attacks on police officers will not be tolerated.
“Furthermore, the Command reiterates that it 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,” the statement added.
Residents were cautioned against spreading unverified information that could induce panic or mislead security agencies.
“The deliberate spread of misinformation and disinformation constitutes a criminal act, and individuals found culpable will face the full weight of the law,” it warned.
DSP Ayanlade expressed appreciation to the Inspector General of Police for his support and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining law and order across the state.
Security has since been heightened across Akure as investigators intensify efforts to unravel the full circumstances surrounding the fatal attack.