In Ilorin, the Kwara State Police Command apprehended a 46-year-old man, Isiaka Adeniyi, suspected of being a ritualist, for attempting to kill a 10-year-old boy hawking pepper. The incident occurred on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in the Oke-Foma area of Ilorin West Local Government.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, confirmed that the suspect lured the boy into a room under the guise of buying pepper. Adeniyi then allegedly covered the boy’s face with a cloth and attempted to slaughter him with a knife. The swift intervention of vigilant community members led to the suspect’s arrest and his subsequent handover to the police.
The preliminary investigation is underway, and the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a comprehensive probe. The state Commissioner of Police, Victor Olaiya, praised the community’s prompt action in capturing the suspect and emphasized the commitment to ensuring justice.
In response to the incident, the police have deployed tactical teams across the state to bolster security from July 7, 2024, onward. The public is encouraged to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through the provided emergency contact lines: 0812 527 5046 or 0703 206 9456.