The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 53-year-old man, Omowole Ikulala, in connection with the alleged killing of a 77-year-old farmer, Boboye Iwasanmi, in Okitipupa, headquarters of Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the arrest on Saturday, stating that the case has been transferred to the Homicide Section for a detailed investigation.
Jimoh explained that the deceased was allegedly attacked and killed at his farm located in the Oligbe Farm Settlement on the outskirts of Okitipupa.
According to him, the incident was reported to the police by the deceased’s wife, Mrs Veronica Iwasanmi, whose complaint led to the arrest of the suspect, who is currently in police custody.
The police spokesperson said preliminary investigations had commenced to unravel the circumstances surrounding the farmer’s death, while the suspect continues to assist investigators.
He noted that the deceased’s remains have been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital Mortuary in Okitipupa pending the outcome of investigations.
Jimoh assured that the suspect would be charged to court if found culpable after the completion of the investigation.
“The incident was reported by his wife who stated that she returned from fetching water in the farm to discover her husband missing, only to later find him lying in a pool of blood with suspected machete wounds on his head and neck.
“Upon receiving the report, police operatives immediately mobilised to the scene, where the area was examined.
“The corpse was subsequently evacuated to the State Specialist Hospital Mortuary, Okitipupa, for preservation.
“Police operatives have arrested one Ikulala in connection with the killing,” the command’s spokesperson said.
Jimoh further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Felix Ohagwu, has directed a comprehensive investigation into the incident to ensure that justice is served.
The police urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with investigators by providing any useful information that could assist in the ongoing probe.