Adesakin Adefemi
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a 38-year-old man, Saheed Eegunjobi, for his alleged involvement in a violent attack on a commercial motorcyclist in Ibadan. The arrest is part of the command’s ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities in the state.
According to the police, the arrest followed a collaborative effort between officers and community-based security partners, particularly the Agbekoya Vigilante Group. The group’s swift action led to the apprehension of the suspect, who is currently helping with investigations.
The suspect and an accomplice, who is currently at large, allegedly posed as passengers and boarded a commercial motorcycle from the Mokola area of Ibadan before launching the attack. The duo’s modus operandi involved pretending to be genuine passengers, only to turn on the rider and attack him.
The incident occurred when the suspects got to the Modina area of Idi-Aro, where they stopped the motorcycle and attacked the rider, Sakiru Tiamiyu, inflicting injuries on his head with a cutlass. The victim, a 32-year-old father of two, was left bleeding on the roadside as the attackers fled with his motorcycle.
The police spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, stated that the victim fell off the motorcycle during the attack, while the fleeing accomplice escaped with the stolen motorcycle. The suspect, however, was apprehended by passersby at the scene and subsequently handed over to the police.
The arrested suspect was handed over to the police through the Agbekoya Vigilante personnel, who deserve commendation for their bravery and vigilance. The police have praised the group’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in crime prevention.
During interrogation, the suspect confessed to his involvement in the crime, providing valuable information that will aid in the arrest of his accomplice. The injured rider was immediately rushed to a medical facility for urgent treatment and is currently recovering.
The police have initiated preliminary investigations, taking photographs and other necessary steps to apprehend the fleeing accomplice and recover the stolen motorcycle. The investigation is ongoing, and the police are working tirelessly to bring all perpetrators to justice.
The Oyo State Police Command has reaffirmed its stance against criminality, emphasizing that intelligence-driven and collaborative policing strategies will continue to be deployed to rid the state of criminal elements. The command urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The command appreciates the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his continued support and leadership toward strengthening community policing nationwide. The police will continue to work with community partners to ensure that Oyo State remains a safe and secure place for all residents.