The Ondo State Police Command has arrested four individuals over the alleged assault, public humiliation, and circulation of a viral video involving a resident, warning that anyone who takes the law into their own hands or uses social media to shame suspects will face prosecution.
The arrests followed a complaint by Boluwaji Temidayo, who alleged that he was physically attacked, recorded without his consent, and that the footage was later circulated on various social media platforms.
According to the police, the incident occurred on July 21, 2026, while the complaint was officially lodged at the Okuta Elerinla Police Station on July 23.
The command said investigators immediately launched a technology-driven forensic investigation using digital intelligence to identify those involved in both the alleged assault and the online dissemination of the video.
The operation led to the arrest of Gbemisola Ariyo, Babatunde Eniola, Adams Tobiloba, and Fasusi Bunmi, who are currently in police custody.
Police said the suspects have made useful statements, while investigations continue to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to the incident. Those found culpable will be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation.
The command strongly condemned the growing trend of jungle justice, public humiliation, and cyberbullying, stressing that no individual or group has the legal authority to assault, intimidate, or publicly parade anyone merely suspected of committing an offence.
It also warned against recording and sharing such incidents on social media, describing the practice as capable of violating individuals’ rights and interfering with ongoing investigations.
The police reminded residents that every citizen, including criminal suspects, is entitled to constitutional protections and due process, noting that allegations alone do not amount to guilt.
The command urged members of the public to report suspected offenders to law enforcement agencies rather than resort to self-help or mob action.
It further cautioned that individuals who create, publish, or circulate defamatory or malicious content online could face prosecution under existing laws, including the Cybercrimes Act.
The Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all residents while ensuring that anyone who violates the law is brought to justice.
