Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Osun State, Nigeria — The Osun State Police Command has intensified its investigation into the violent assault on police officers in the Erin-Osun and Ilobu communities, leading to the arrest of 14 additional suspects, bringing the total number of detainees to 18 as the probe continues.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed that the new arrests were made through intelligence-led operations carried out under the direction of Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan. The suspects were tracked and apprehended after going into hiding following the initial attack.
Authorities recovered several items linked to the assault during the arrests, including a single-barrel gun, a live cartridge, and a cutlass. These items are being examined as evidence in the ongoing legal process. The police emphasised that all suspects would be prosecuted according to Nigerian law, underscoring the command’s commitment to upholding human rights while ensuring accountability for those involved.
The initial attack on the officers occurred during a deployment aimed at addressing tensions arising from a longstanding boundary dispute between the Erin-Osun and Ilobu communities. These tensions have periodically escalated into violent confrontations, and the police were on duty to prevent further clashes when the assault occurred.
Earlier in the week, four suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident, marking the beginning of the investigation that would expand to include the 14 additional detainees. Among those now in custody are community members, including some local leaders and elders, ranging in age from 18 to 65, reflecting the diversity of those allegedly involved in the attack.
The Osun State Police Command has urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding while the investigation proceeds. Authorities have appealed for public cooperation in providing information that could aid ongoing efforts to apprehend any remaining suspects and prevent further unrest.
Officials say that these arrests reflect a broader effort to address attacks on law enforcement personnel and to mitigate communal tensions in the state. Police have reiterated that restoring public order requires both the enforcement of the law and attention to the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to disputes between neighbouring communities.
As the investigation continues, authorities have indicated that they will pursue any additional suspects believed to be at large. Residents in Erin-Osun and Ilobu have expressed relief at the arrests while calling for sustained efforts to ensure long-term peace and prevent similar incidents in the future.
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