The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a man accused of fatally assaulting a boy on suspicion of stealing cocoa pods in the state.
According to information obtained by PUNCH Metro on Wednesday, the incident happened at Akunmi Quarters, Akungba, when the suspect allegedly attacked the boy, accusing him of harvesting cocoa pods from a farm without permission.
Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olusola, said in a statement that the assault occurred on September 20 at about 2:30 p.m. The victim was later brought to the police station in an unconscious state, and officers immediately directed that he be given emergency medical care.
The boy was, however, confirmed dead at the hospital a few hours later. His body has been deposited at the hospital’s morgue for autopsy, while the suspect has been taken into custody.
Olusola explained that the matter has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Akure for a thorough probe to ensure justice.
Quoting Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal, the statement condemned the act and warned residents against taking the law into their own hands. Lawal urged citizens to report disputes or criminal activities to security agencies rather than resorting to violence or “jungle justice.”
While expressing condolences to the victim’s family, Lawal assured the public that the case would be handled with fairness, professionalism, and adherence to due process. He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and encouraged residents to work with the police to maintain peace and security in the state.
A similar incident reported by PUNCH Metro on Wednesday involved the arrest of three suspects in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State over the kidnapping and killing of a 10-year-old boy.
