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By Lateef Dada, Osogbo
Controversy has trailed the arrest and shooting of Chairman, Osun State Transport Management Committee (OSTMC), Nurudeen Wakili, popularly known as Alowonle, by policemen.
It was gathered that Alowonle was arrested on Monday evening by men of an anti-kidnapping squad in Osogbo, the state capital, after a gun duel with the police.
A police source hinted that the suspect was later arrested and taken to his house for search where different arms were recovered.
Speaking on behalf of the Police Public Relations, Yemisi Opalola, Giwa-Alade Emmanuel, confirmed the arrest of Wakili.
While the police alleged that the suspect engaged policemen in a gun battle when they wanted to arrest him and was maimed, members of the OSTMS alleged that he was shot inside detention.
According to the police, “He was arrested in connection with unlawful possession of a firearm, attempted murder, conspiracy, murder and malicious damage. He was able to escape. He escaped with some of his boys.
“The police mobilised and re-strategised. They apprehended him again. After they apprehended him the second time, they searched his vehicle and found some life ammunition.
“Four of his guys were arrested. He tried to make a run again and he was maimed and they rushed him to the hospital for treatment. He was arrested alongside four of his boys,” the police said.
However, a statement by the State Secretary of OSTMS, Mukaila Popoola, yesterday, alleged that the police shot Alowonle in police custody.
Popoola said the transport chairman was arrested over domestic issues and was taken to the police custody where he was shot.
“Our chairman was shot at police custody under circumstances that call for thorough investigations.
“We call on our members not to take laws into their hands. We must maintain peace across the parks while we take the matter up with the appropriate authorities,” Popoola said.
