By Bukola Olamona
The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended a suspected armed robber and recovered dangerous weapons used in a violent attack on a farming settlement in Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement signed by the Command’s Spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, the arrest followed a report by one Mr. Kenneth Ossia, who disclosed that he received a distress call from the Chairman of Sete Camp, informing him that armed men had invaded the community.
The attackers were said to have carted away ten bags of 500kg cocoa beans, five 30-litre kegs of palm oil, and ₦850,000 in cash after terrorising residents.
Police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene, leading to the arrest of one of the suspects, identified as Muhammed Bisiriyu, while four others escaped into the bush.
The prompt intervention of the police was said to have restored calm to the community and prevented further attacks.
A search conducted on the arrested suspect led to the recovery of a single-barrel gun with an expended cartridge, a battle axe, two dagger knives, three cutlasses, and a police belt believed to have been used during the operation.
During interrogation, Bisiriyu reportedly confessed to the crime and has been assisting detectives in tracing his fleeing accomplices. The police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects and recover the stolen items.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, commended the officers involved for their swift response.
He assured that the Command would not relent until all criminal elements in the state were brought to justice.
Lawal urged residents, especially those in rural and farming communities, to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station, stressing that effective policing depends largely on public cooperation.