The Oyo state police command says its operatives have arrested a masquerade over the alleged killing of Sefiu Kehinde, a 24-year-old man.
Kehinde was attacked during a masquerade procession in the Labiran area of Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.
In a statement on Monday, Ayanlade Olayinka, the command’s spokesperson, said the incident was reported at the Mapo divisional police headquarters on Sunday, July 5, by a woman identified as Mrs. Aderemi.
According to Olayinka, Aderemi said she received a distress call around 4 pm on Sunday informing her that a masquerade identified as Asoleke and his followers allegedly attacked her younger brother with axes and cutlasses while parading through the Labiran area.
She said her brother was left severely injured.
“Upon receipt of the report, a team of Police operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer, Mapo Division, swiftly mobilised to the scene,” the statement reads.
“The victim was immediately evacuated to the Hospital for urgent medical attention, where he was unfortunately confirmed dead on arrival by the medical doctor on duty.
“Meanwhile, the masquerade, Asoleke, has been arrested, while four of his followers alleged to have committed the crime are still at large.”
Olayinka said the scene was processed and necessary documentation, including photographs, was taken.
He added that the deceased’s family requested and obtained the release of the body for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
Olayinka added that Abimbola Olugbenga, the commissioner of police in Oyo, has directed that the case be transferred to the state criminal investigation department (SCID) for further investigation.
According to him, efforts are ongoing to apprehend the four fleeing suspects.
“Residents are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the Police by providing credible information that may assist the investigation,” he said.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property and will continue to take decisive action against all forms of criminality across the state.”
