The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 18 suspects in connection with the recent attack on police officers in Erin-Osun and Ilobu communities.
In a statement issued by spokesperson Abiodun Ojelabi on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, the command said 14 additional suspects were arrested, bringing the total number to 18.
According to the statement, “the suspects had initially gone into hiding after the attack but were later apprehended through targeted intelligence gathering.”
The police said the arrests were made through sustained intelligence-led operations coordinated by the Commissioner of Police.
During the operation, officers recovered several items, including a single-barrel gun, one live cartridge, and a cutlass.
Among those arrested are community leaders, including Olaitan Bashiru, identified as the Baale of Apeponroro, Tajudeen Aralamo, the Baale of Oke Ayepe, and Mustau Salam, the Oluode of Ilobu.
Other suspects listed include Jimoh Nurudeen, Adeboye Ashifa, Ajibola Segun, Mustapha Muwaliu, Jimoh Quyum, Ajani Faruq, Musibau Jimoh, Ajani Faruq, Olaniyan Quadri, Fatai Oyawoyin, Basiru Olaogun, Mutairu Olawoyin, Ige Jimoh, Olawoyin Samad, and Tajudeen Taorid.
The command reiterated its commitment to justice while respecting the rights of all individuals involved.
“The Command assures that all those involved in the criminal act will face the full weight of the law to serve as a deterrent to others,” the statement said.
Police also confirmed that efforts are ongoing to arrest other suspects still on the run and urged members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information.
The officers were reportedly attacked while responding to intelligence about a possible breakdown of peace between the Erin-Osun and Ilobu communities.
