Ondo Police Apprehend Suspect in Owo Cult-Related Homicide, Launch Manhunt for Accomplices

Category: Crime & Security | Location: Owo, Ondo State | Date: December 16, 2025

By Muftau Ogunyemi

AKURE – The Ondo State Police Command has announced a significant breakthrough in a violent cult clash, confirming the arrest of one suspect linked to a fatal attack in Owo. The incident, which underscores the persistent threat of cult-related violence in the region, occurred on December 14, 2025.

DSP Jimoh Kazeem, the command’s Public Relations Officer, detailed the events in a statement released to the press on Tuesday. According to the report, the command received a distress call concerning a violent invasion by suspected cult members at Shine Villa on Opomulero Street, Owo.

“Upon receipt of the information, it was alleged that suspected members of a cult group forcefully gained entry into the premises and attacked one Ayodele Peter, a 25-year-old male,” Kazeem stated.

Cult-related violence remains a deep-seated security challenge in many Nigerian states, including Ondo. These groups, often originating from university campuses, have evolved into complex criminal networks involved in armed robbery, land grabbing, political thuggery, and targeted assassinations. Their clashes are frequently driven by territorial disputes, revenge killings, or struggles for supremacy, creating cycles of violence that terrorize communities. The swift police response in this case highlights the command’s current operational priorities, but also points to the need for sustained, multi-faceted strategies combining enforcement, community intelligence, and youth engagement to dismantle these groups at their roots.

The police response to the Owo incident serves as a practical example of modern policing tactics. Kazeem explained that the distress call triggered an immediate and coordinated response:

“This prompted the immediate deployment of operatives of the division, supported by intelligence-led policing and a swift tactical response to the scene.”

The victim, Ayodele Peter, was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owo but was later pronounced dead. The transition from emergency response to investigative manhunt was seamless: “Meanwhile, a coordinated manhunt was launched for the perpetrators which led to the arrest of one suspect in connection with the incident.”

The spokesperson confirmed that the apprehended suspect “has made useful statements and is presently in custody while concerted efforts are ongoing to apprehend others at large.” This suggests the investigation is active and may lead to further arrests, potentially disrupting the operations of the involved cult cell.

The State Commissioner of Police commended the operatives for their “prompt and decisive response,” which Kazeem said reflected the command’s enhanced capacity for timely intervention. This public commendation is strategic, aiming to boost officer morale and public confidence.

The statement concluded with a crucial appeal to the public, emphasizing the partnership required for effective security: “He, therefore, urged members of the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities, as collective effort remains vital to the attainment of a safer society.” Community tip-offs are often the critical first step in preventing such violence or apprehending those responsible.

While this arrest is a positive step, it represents the beginning, not the end, of the judicial process. The police must now build a robust case for prosecution. Furthermore, the manhunt for the remaining suspects will test the command’s intelligence networks. For the community of Owo, this incident is a stark reminder of the latent threat of cult violence and the importance of robust community-police relations. The coming days will reveal whether this operation can deter retaliatory attacks or further destabilization by the involved groups.

(Report by NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

OMA/AYO

Edited by Ayodeji Alabi

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