The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has arrested 13 suspects in connection with the violent attack on a ward congress of the All Progressives Congress that left two people dead.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 18, in Idanre, headquarters of Idanre Local Government Area of the state.
Confirming the development on Saturday in Akure, the police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the arrests followed a coordinated intelligence-driven operation ordered by the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal.
“The attack resulted in the tragic loss of two lives, injuries to three persons and destruction of property,” Jimoh said.
“This prompted the Commissioner of Police to direct an intensive intelligence-led manhunt to track down everyone connected with the violence.”
According to him, officers from the Idanre Police Division carried out surveillance and targeted operations at key locations, leading to the arrest of the suspects.
“Acting on credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, our operatives executed coordinated operations at strategic points, which culminated in the arrest of the suspects,” he stated.
Jimoh noted that the suspects are currently in custody and have provided useful information to investigators.
“They have made statements that are aiding ongoing investigations as the command works to determine the roles played by each individual and identify any additional collaborators,” he added.
The spokesperson said the Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the command’s resolve to ensure that all those involved in the attack are brought to justice.
He also conveyed Lawal’s appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for what he described as strong support and strategic leadership.
“The Inspector-General’s guidance and operational support have strengthened the command’s capacity to respond swiftly to security threats across the state,” Jimoh said.
The police warned individuals or groups planning to disrupt public peace that the command would deploy its full operational strength to deal with such acts.
“Residents of Idanre and the wider Ondo State are urged to remain calm, law-abiding and continue providing timely information that can support ongoing investigations and improve security,” the statement added.
