 |
| Ondo map |
Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have launched an investigation into an alleged attempt to contaminate a stream serving as the primary source of drinking water for residents of Aponmu-Lona in Idanre Local Government Area.
A suspect, identified as Philips Odefila, was reportedly apprehended by members of the community while allegedly carrying out the act and was subsequently handed over to the police.
The traditional ruler of the community, Chief Babalola Bolujare, the Olu of Aponmu-Lona, disclosed that the incident occurred amid an ongoing dispute between the community and suspected hoodlums accused of invading the area and destroying farmlands.
Speaking with journalists on Friday, Bolujare said the community had earlier petitioned the Inspector General of Police and the Department of State Services over the invasion by armed individuals who allegedly destroyed cocoa plantations and other crops.
He added that the police authorities had already ordered an investigation into the earlier attack on the community.
Bolujare explained that while the probe was ongoing, the suspect was caught allegedly attempting to poison the stream used by residents, prompting immediate action by locals who arrested him before alerting the police.
According to him, the police have since arrested two other individuals believed to be connected to the incident following preliminary interrogation.
The monarch called on security agencies to carry out a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
He said, “We have petitioned the Inspector General of Police over the invasion of our community by some armed thugs who destroyed our cocoa plantations and other crops. They claimed that the land belongs to the person who sent them.
“But while the investigation into the invasion is still going on, some people went to poison the stream that we are drinking from in our community. Thank God that they sighted them when they were poisoning the water, and one of them was arrested by the people of our community.
“They contacted the police, and he was handed over to the police for investigation. Two other accomplices of the culprit have been arrested by the police. We are calling on the Inspector General of Police to help us out by ensuring a proper investigation into this incident and the prosecution of the culprits. He should ensure this matter is not swept under the carpet.”
Meanwhile, the community, through its lawyer, Tobi Ogunleye, had earlier filed a petition raising concerns over a looming crisis linked to a land dispute between Akure and Idanre communities.
The petition, titled “Re: Urgent Call To Avert Looming Communal Warfare Between Akure And Idanre Communities, Flagrant Criminal Contempt Of Court And Malicious Destruction Of Economic Crops,” urged the police authorities to act swiftly to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
Parts of the petition read, “Our clients hereby humbly pray to your esteemed office to quickly and earnestly act to prevent and avert the possible breakdown of law and order between the two communities.
“Ondo State and Nigeria at large cannot afford a repeat of the Ife/Modakeke communal uprising at this very time when banditry is ravaging the nation.”
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Abayomi Jimoh, said the command was aware of the arrest and had commenced an investigation into the allegation, though he did not disclose the total number of suspects in custody.
0 Comments