The Ondo State Police Command has arrested five individuals suspected of involvement in the recent arson attack on the Divisional Police Station in Ifon, the administrative headquarters of Ose Local Government Area.
Police Commissioner Wilfred Afolabi confirmed the arrests on Tuesday, stating that the suspects are currently being held at the police headquarters.
The police station was set ablaze by enraged youths over the weekend, following the reported torture and death of a teenage boy, Tolu Bobade, while in police custody.
On Monday, the deceased’s family submitted a formal petition to Ondo’s Chief Judge, Olusegun Olusola, calling for justice over the boy’s death.
Condemning the violent attack, Commissioner Afolabi expressed understanding for the family’s grief and their right to seek justice, but also cautioned against vigilante justice.
“Ifon cannot function without a police station, and it’s clear that setting it on fire was an error. Such actions disrupt the rule of law,” Afolabi stated.
He urged the community to act peacefully and adhere to legal processes in future disputes, rather than resorting to violence. He also reassured the public that an investigation is underway, and justice will be pursued.
The police have suggested that the attack on the station may have stemmed from a family dispute.