The Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspected criminals, identified as Abimbo Rotimi and Joseph Innocent, for allegedly terrorising residents and inflicting injuries on three people in the Idanre area of the state.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, the suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Monday following a coordinated police operation.
Ayanlade explained that the duo, armed with a locally made pistol and a knife, stormed a provision shop and a nearby house, where they attacked and injured three victims who are currently receiving medical treatment.
He revealed that Rotimi, a 35-year-old man known in the area as “Officer Koi”, has long been on the police radar for alleged involvement in drug trafficking, armed robbery, and cult-related activities. His accomplice, Innocent, aged 28, reportedly resides with him on Ehinpeti Street, behind White House, Idanre.
“The suspects invaded an Indomie shop owned by one Henry and later broke into a house belonging to Abimbola Sunday, both located on the same street,” Ayanlade said.
“Armed with dangerous weapons, they attacked their victims — Henry was stabbed on his fingers, Abimbola suffered a bite injury on her lower lip, while another victim, Akinduko Akinbobola, a commercial motorcyclist, sustained a deep cut on his head.”
Although the culprits initially escaped, the police launched a swift intelligence-led manhunt that led to their arrest. Items recovered from them include a locally made pistol, a kitchen knife, two pairs of scissors, and an axe.
Ayanlade confirmed that the victims were promptly taken to the hospital, while the suspects are currently assisting investigators at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the professionalism and quick response of the Idanre Divisional Police team, assuring residents of the command’s continued commitment to maintaining peace and safety across the state.
“The CP reaffirmed the command’s dedication to protecting lives and property,” Ayanlade added. “He also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide reliable information to assist law enforcement efforts.”
Ondo State has witnessed recurring incidents of cult clashes and violent crimes. In May 2025, police arrested 46 youths in connection with a deadly gang conflict that claimed four lives. Similarly, in January, suspected cultists launched an attack in a political figure’s community, resulting in multiple fatalities.
The latest arrests underscore the police command’s determination to curb criminal activities and restore public confidence in communities troubled by insecurity.
