By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a 29-year-old suspect in connection with a theft case that uncovered items suspected to be human remains and other exhibits of investigative concern in Ile-Oluji.
The Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, disclosed that the suspect, Awomehinde Tope, was apprehended on April 11, 2026, following allegations of theft involving property belonging to his father.
Police said the suspect allegedly stole items, including 3 motorcycles, livestock, mobile phones, gas cylinders, gold items, and household materials.
Further investigation led to the recovery of one of the stolen items, traced to another individual, prompting a search operation at the suspect’s residence.
During the search, operatives recovered items suspected to be of ritualistic and criminal significance, including a bone believed to be human remains, charms, native sponges, black soap, and an expended AK-47 ammunition shell.
The police noted that the suspected human remains would undergo forensic analysis to determine their origin.
In the course of the investigation, 2 additional suspects, identified as John Vincent, 22, and Olakintan Oladele, 29, were arrested at another location linked to the case after failing to provide satisfactory explanations regarding the items recovered.
The Command said all suspects have made useful statements, adding that investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of criminal involvement, including the source and intended use of the recovered exhibits.
The police assured that the suspects would be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
He also appreciated the support of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, noting that his leadership continues to enhance operational effectiveness across commands.