The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 29-year-old man, Awomehinde Tope, over alleged theft, with investigators uncovering suspected human remains and an expended AK-47 shell during a search of his residence in Ile-Oluji.
Confirming the development in a statement on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the suspect was apprehended on April 11, 2026, following a complaint lodged by his father, Awomehinde Kehinde.
Jimoh stated, “The suspect allegedly stole several items, including three Boxer Bajaj motorcycles, nine goats, quantities of palm oil, four Android phones, two gas cylinders, gold items, and rug carpets.”
According to him, investigations revealed that one of the stolen rugs had been sold to a buyer identified as Olawale Sunday, prompting further police action.
“Acting on credible intelligence, operatives conducted a search at the suspect’s residence, where items of investigative concern were recovered,” he said.
The police spokesman added, “These include a piece of bone suspected to be human skeletal remains, which will be subjected to forensic analysis, two native sponges, fetish charms, black soap, and one expended shell of AK-47 ammunition.”
He disclosed that two additional suspects—John Vincent, 22, and Olakintan Oladele, 29—were arrested at the residence of the said Olawale Sunday.
“The suspects could not provide satisfactory explanations regarding their possession of the recovered items,” Jimoh noted.
The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has ordered a thorough investigation into the case.
Jimoh said, “The Commissioner of Police has directed that the case be comprehensively investigated to ascertain the full extent of criminal involvement, including the origin and purpose of the suspected human remains and other exhibits.”
He added that all suspects have made useful statements and would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
Reassuring residents, the Command stated that it “remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” urging members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Jimoh further conveyed the appreciation of the Commissioner of Police to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continued support and leadership, which he said has enhanced operational effectiveness and boosted the morale of officers in the Command.