The Oyo State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the alleged killing of a 24-year-old man, Sefiu Kehinde, who was reportedly attacked during a masquerade procession in Ibadan.
The tragic incident occurred in the Labiran area of the Oyo State capital, where the victim was said to have been assaulted by a masquerade identified as “Asoleke” and its followers during a public parade.
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the case was reported at the Mapo Divisional Police Headquarters by a woman identified as Mrs Aderemi, who received a distress call from her elder sister regarding the attack.
Police operatives swiftly responded to the report and rushed the victim to a nearby hospital. However, he was confirmed dead on arrival by medical personnel.
The statement revealed that the attackers allegedly used dangerous weapons, including axes and cutlasses, inflicting severe injuries on the victim.
Following the incident, the police processed the crime scene and documented evidence, while the deceased’s family was granted permission to take custody of the body for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
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The command confirmed that the principal suspect, identified as the Asoleke masquerade, has been arrested, while four other suspects believed to be accomplices are currently on the run.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Authorities have assured residents that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and urged members of the public to provide credible information that may aid the investigation.
The incident has once again raised concerns over violent occurrences linked to traditional masquerade processions in some parts of the country.
The Oyo State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and vowed to take decisive action against all forms of criminal activity.
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