The Osun State Police Command has launched an investigation into the death of a suspected cocoa thief identified as Taofeek while in police custody in Agbeye, Odo-Otin Local Government Area of the state.
The police spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident on Wednesday, saying the command was investigating the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s death.
According to him, Taofeek was apprehended by community members on Monday over allegations that he stole cocoa seeds.
The community members reportedly took him to the palace of the traditional ruler, who directed that he be handed over to the police at the Agbeye Police Post.
Ojelabi said the officer in charge later went to check on Taofeek in the detention cell and discovered that he had died.
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The police said preliminary findings indicated that the suspect had taken his own life while in custody.
The spokesperson added that the officer in charge of the police post had been questioned as part of the investigation into what happened before the suspect’s death.
He stressed that no arrest had been made in connection with the incident, while the investigation continued.
The police also said they had no information suggesting that Taofeek was paraded or humiliated before being handed over to the authorities.
A resident, who spoke anonymously, said cocoa theft had reportedly become a recurring issue in the community before Taofeek was apprehended.
The resident said Taofeek was taken to the traditional ruler’s palace along with the cocoa seeds before being transferred to the police post.
According to the resident, residents later received information early Tuesday that Taofeek had been found hanging inside the detention cell.
The police said the deceased’s family had been contacted, while arrangements concerning his remains were being discussed with relatives.
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