Some operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, and officers of the Ondo State Police Command sustained injuries following a clash over the custody of a suspected motorcycle thief.
The altercation occurred in the Ijoka area of Akure North Local Government Area after a complainant reported a stolen motorcycle and other property from a church near Sunday Bus Stop to the Amotekun Corps. Acting swiftly, Amotekun personnel recovered the stolen motorcycle and arrested the suspect.
It was gathered that trouble started while the suspect was being transported for interrogation.
Police officers reportedly arrived at the scene and demanded custody of the suspect. Amotekun operatives declined, insisting on taking the suspect to their office, which escalated tensions.
According to one injured Amotekun officer, the police later reinforced their presence and allegedly attempted to forcibly retrieve the suspect, sparking a violent confrontation.
The clash intensified near the ShopRite roundabout, close to the Amotekun headquarters, where both agencies blocked off the road. Sporadic gunfire ensued, causing panic among residents and forcing many to flee for safety.
In response, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Olusola Alayande, said police officers were the first to arrive at the scene following a report of theft at a nearby church.
He alleged that Amotekun operatives, accompanied by a group of commercial motorcyclists, disrupted the police operation, forcibly taking custody of the suspect and injuring an officer in the process.
Alayande described the incident as a “misunderstanding” between the agencies and claimed the suspect had been severely brutalized by Amotekun operatives.
He said following a dialogue between the leadership of both agencies, the suspect and exhibits were eventually returned to the police.
As of the time of filing this report, the state commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye,has yet to comment on the development.
Source: Daily Trust
