Police Arrest Suspect Over Fatal Akure Robbery, Launch Manhunt for Fleeing Gang Members
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested one suspect in connection with the gruesome armed robbery attack that claimed the life of a resident, Clement Idris, in Akure, the state capital.
The command disclosed that the incident occurred in the early hours of Friday, July 3, 2026, at the Shagari area of Akure, adding that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the robbery gang.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the police said a resident, Oluwatoyin, reported the incident at about 3:30 a.m. after hearing a gunshot around 1:00 a.m. Moments later, he reportedly heard a familiar voice crying for help. On stepping outside, he found the victim lying in a pool of blood.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the armed robbers invaded the victim’s residence during the night, dragged him outside, attacked him with machetes and later shot him before fleeing the scene.
The victim was rushed by neighbours to the General Hospital, Akure, where medical personnel confirmed him dead.
Police detectives who visited the scene documented the incident and recovered several exhibits, including a lady’s handbag, a cross bag, a small Itel mobile phone and an expended cartridge from a locally fabricated firearm.
According to the police, initial findings showed that the recovered phone and one of the bags belonged to occupants of a neighbouring apartment who had earlier been robbed before the attackers turned on the deceased.
The command said one suspect has been arrested through intelligence-led investigations, while tactical operatives are continuing coordinated operations, supported by forensic analysis, to track down the fleeing suspects and recover the weapons used in the attack.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, assured residents that the command remains committed to bringing all those involved in the crime to justice.
He also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could assist security agencies in arresting the fleeing suspects.
The Ondo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state and urged residents to promptly report suspicious persons and activities through the nearest police station or designated emergency channels.
