From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure
Suspected hoodlums said to be youths living in Ifon, headquarters of Ose Local Government, Ondo State, Saturday night set the police station in the town ablaze, destroying valuables belonging to the Nigeria Police Force.
Although the root cause of the ugly incident was not known, it was speculated that some youths from the town were arrested and detained at the police station, hence the reaction of their colleagues.
The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi who confirmed the incident in a statement by Ondo state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) , explained that the police have launched investigations into the attack.
The police commissioner who was on the spot assessment of areas , said the attack was masterminded by some youths from the town.
The Police boss condemned the attack;arson on the Divisional Police Station and ordered a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the incident and to bring those responsible to justice.
“Preliminary reports indicates that the incident began on February 15, 2025, when a dispute between two families on Ogbomo Street, Ifon, escalated into a public fight. Officers from Ifon division, led by an Inspector, responded promptly, moved to the scene, intervened and made arrests while some suspects fled.
“Later, one Tobi Bobade , one of the young men involved in the fight was brought to the station by one Mr. Losilosi. He appeared weak and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention. He was later pronounced dead while receiving treatment. His remains have been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo for a postmortem examination.
“While officers were at the station, angry mob, led by the deceased’s father, launched a violent attack on the station, the administrative office, DPOs office, the station store and two exhibit vehicles were affected by the inferno caused by the mob.
“Fortunately, no live was lost in the fire as security personnel acted swiftly and called for reinforcement to secure the premises.
“The Commissioner of Police in the course of his visit met with the Chairman of the Local government, Community leaders and other stakeholders in the community. He assured that all those responsible for the criminal act will face the full weight of the law.
“The Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm and refrain from taking the laws into their hands. Investigations are ongoing and further updates will be provided as investigation progresses”.