Suspected cultists kill Ondo Poly student

….one arrested, manhunt launched for others — Police

Suspected cultists struck on Tuesday, in Owo, Owo local government area of Ondo state, killing a 25-year-old student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo (RUGIPO), Peter Ayodele, in his house

Ayodele, who lost his mother some two weeks ago, was said to have been gruesomely murdered by the suspected cultists in his residence in the Opomulero area of Owo, following a battle of supremacy between rival cults of the institution.

It was gathered that the suspected cult members forcefully gained entry into the victim’s residence, attacked and shot him, and he was half dead before the arrival of another rival cult group, who stormed the deceased’s house to save the victim.

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The deceased was subsequently rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, by his colleagues, where he was later confirmed dead.

Speaking on the development, the estate Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abayomi Kazeem, confirmed the killing of Ayodele, saying that the command received a distress call that the victim was shot by individuals believed to be cultists.

“Police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene following the distress call received with tactical and intelligence support. He was rushed to the hospital but later died. A manhunt was launched for the attackers, leading to the arrest of one suspect.

“The suspect is currently in custody and has made useful statements. Efforts are ongoing to arrest other fleeing suspects,” he said.

Commending the swift response of the officers, the state Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, reassured residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, adding that security had been reinforced across the state.

Lawal described their action as professional and commendable, noting that it reflects the Command’s enhanced capacity for timeous response to incidents.

The Commissioner further reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property during and after the festive period.

He stressed that all necessary security measures have been reinforced to sustain peace across the state.

Lawal has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Team Commanders to remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring robust security coverage across all areas throughout this period and beyond.

The Command urged members of the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities, as collective effort remains vital to the attainment of a safer society.