The Ondo State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in the investigation of a tragic murder case, announcing the arrest of a suspect linked to the killing of a polytechnic student.
Swift Police Response to Distress Call
According to a statement released by the command's spokesperson, DSP Jimoh Abayomi Kazeem, on Monday, December 16, 2025, the incident occurred on Sunday, December 14, 2025. The police received a distress call concerning a violent attack by suspected cultists at Shine Villa on Opomulero Street in Owo.
It was reported that members of a cult group forcefully entered the premises and attacked Ayodele Peter, a 25-year-old male student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. The victim was shot during the assault.
Manhunt Leads to Arrest
Police operatives from the division were immediately deployed to the scene, employing intelligence-led policing and a swift tactical response. The injured Ayodele Peter was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owo, where he was later confirmed dead.
Following the incident, the command launched a coordinated manhunt for the perpetrators. This operation led to the arrest of one suspect in the Opomulero area of Owo. The police confirmed that the suspect is in custody and has provided useful statements to aid the investigation. Concerted efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects who remain at large.
Police Leadership Commends Operatives, Reassures Public
The Commissioner of Police for Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc(+), mnips, commended the operatives for their prompt and professional response. He described their action as commendable and reflective of the command's enhanced capacity for timely intervention.
CP Lawal further reassured residents of the command's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, especially during and after the festive season. He stressed that all necessary security measures have been reinforced to sustain peace across Ondo State.
Consequently, the Commissioner has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical Team Commanders to remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring robust security coverage throughout this period and beyond.
The command also expressed appreciation for the strategic leadership and continuous support of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, whose reforms and technological initiatives are enhancing policing effectiveness in the state.
In closing, the Ondo State Police Command urged members of the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities, emphasizing that a collective effort is vital for a safer society.
