Residents of Iboropa Akoko in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State were plunged into mourning on Friday following the shocking death of an elderly woman, allegedly raped and murdered by a young man.
The tragic incident, which has stirred tension across the quiet community, led to the arrest of a 21-year-old suspect identified as Alabi Anthony, who is currently in police custody.
According to community sources, the deceased, popularly known as Olaseni Veronica, was a well-known elderly resident whose lifeless body was discovered under suspicious circumstances, prompting immediate concern among locals.
Security operatives swiftly launched an investigation, reportedly aided by intelligence tracking of the victim’s missing phone.
This effort led to the arrest of the suspect, who police say has confessed to committing the crime.
In a statement, the Ondo State Police Command confirmed that the suspect admitted to having carnal knowledge of the victim before allegedly strangling her to death.
The suspect was later taken back to the community for identification of the crime scene, drawing a large and emotional crowd of residents.
Tension rose as angry youths gathered, but security personnel intervened promptly to prevent any breakdown of law and order, swiftly removing the suspect from the area.
Meanwhile, a video circulating on social media is said to show the suspect speaking while in custody, though authorities have not officially verified its authenticity.
Condemning the act, the Police Command described the crime as “heinous and inhumane,” assuring the public that justice will be pursued diligently.
The case has since been transferred to the State Headquarters in Akure for further investigation and prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police also urged residents to promptly report suspicious activities and avoid making premature conclusions in cases of unnatural deaths, emphasizing that timely information is crucial for effective policing.
The incident has left the Iboropa community in grief, with residents calling for swift justice for the deceased.