By Victor Akinkuolie

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Tragedy struck on Monday in Irele town, headquarters of Irele Local Government area of Ondo State, following the death of a 27-year-old woman who was reportedly hacked to death by a middle-aged man.

The victim, identified as Bamitale Joy, was, until the unfortunate incident, a teacher in one of the private nursery and primary schools in the community.

The incident, which has thrown the entire community into confusion and tension, was quickly responded to by officials of the Anti-Crime Section attached to the Irele Divisional Police Station.

According to a source close to the police in the town, a minor argument was said to have ensued between the late Joy and a 26-year-old man, the son of her landlord.

The argument, according to the police, later escalated into a heated altercation during which she was hacked to death by the suspect.

The police source added that the suspect, whose name has not been officially released, is currently detained at the Irele Divisional Police Headquarters, where he is assisting the police with the investigation.

The death of the private school teacher, which came as a shock to many residents of the town, almost led to a breakdown of law and order but was brought under control by the police.

Confirming the incident, a senior police officer at the Irele Divisional Police Station, who wished to remain anonymous, said the suspect has been arrested and detained. He explained that the suspect will soon be transferred to the Homicide Section at the Ondo State Police Command in Akure for further investigation.

Speaking on the development, the Chairman of Irele Local Government, Mr. Olajide Akinfe, said he had visited the Irele Divisional Police Headquarters to get firsthand information on the case.

The council boss stated that he held a closed-door meeting with the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and pledged the council’s full support for the ongoing investigation.

The chairman condemned the killing and described it as “heinous and despicable,” emphasising the importance of community vigilance and the collective condemnation of violent acts.

He praised the swift response of the police, which he said helped to calm tensions in the area.

Akinfe appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid resorting to mob justice. He urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing credible information that could assist the investigation.

“Our administration maintains a zero-tolerance stance on crime and violence. We will continue working closely with security agencies and community leaders to ensure the safety and well-being of our people,” he stated.