Oyo Police Arrest Two Suspects Over Alleged Rape and Murder of 62-Year-Old Woman
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the alleged rape and murder of a 62-year-old woman at the Ori-Apata Oderemi area in Ido Local Government Area of the state. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the community, was confirmed by the police in a statement released on Friday, February 29, 2026.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
According to the police spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, the suspects identified as Muhammed Sanusi, 42, and Ogbu James Ajah, 40, are currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The arrest follows a report by a Good Samaritan who discovered the lifeless body of the elderly woman along a bush path within the community.
Ayanlade explained that upon receiving the report, detectives promptly visited the scene. Preliminary findings revealed that the corpse had been at the location for at least seven days prior to its discovery. The deceased was found lying in a pool of blood with a deep cut on her neck, indicating a violent attack.
"The command wishes to inform the general public of a suspected murder incident which occurred at Ori-Apata Oderemi area of Ido, Ibadan. The incident was reported to the police by a Good Samaritan who discovered the lifeless body of a 62-year-old woman on a bush path within the community," the statement read.
Forensic Examination and Community Response
The body was immediately evacuated to the morgue at Adeoyo General Hospital for autopsy and post-mortem examination to scientifically determine the actual cause of death. In a bid to ensure a thorough investigation, the scene was sealed off, and forensic experts were deployed to process and gather necessary evidence.
Ayanlade added that the case has been transferred to the state CID to ensure a comprehensive and discreet inquiry. "Preliminary investigation has led to the arrest of two suspects, Muhammed Sanusi, 42, and Ogbu James Ajah, 40, both residents of the Ori-Apata area of Ido, in connection with the incident. The suspects are currently in custody at the State CID and are assisting the police with ongoing investigations," the statement concluded.
In a video sighted online, the woman's son alleged that the assailants raped his mother before killing her, adding a layer of horror to the already gruesome crime. The police have not yet confirmed these specific allegations but are investigating all aspects of the case.
Police Assurance and Community Measures
The Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, alongside a high-powered delegation from the state government, visited the affected community to assess the situation and commiserate with the bereaved family. The CP directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to coordinate necessary deployments to ensure sustained peace and stability in the area.
The command urged the bereaved family and aggrieved members of the public not to take the law into their hands. "In collaboration with other security agencies and relevant non-state actors, intensive joint patrols have commenced across the affected community and adjoining areas. Police operational assets and tactical teams have been strategically deployed to maintain public order, strengthen visibility policing, and reassure residents of their safety," the statement noted.
The police assured residents that no stone would be left unturned in unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensuring that justice is served. Residents were urged to remain calm, law-abiding, and provide credible information to assist ongoing investigations.
This tragic event highlights ongoing security challenges in some communities and underscores the importance of prompt police action and community cooperation in addressing such heinous crimes.
