The Osun State Police Command has paraded 19 suspects in connection with the assault of its personnel during a renewed communal clash between Ilobu and Erin-Osun communities.
Speaking on Monday, the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, confirmed that those involved in the attack would be prosecuted, stressing that the command would not tolerate any act of lawlessness against security operatives.
The incident reportedly occurred during a fresh outbreak of violence linked to a long-standing boundary and land dispute between the two communities. Police operatives deployed to restore order were allegedly attacked by some residents.
Earlier arrests included two community chiefs, a leader of a huntersโ group, and several residents of Ilobu. Authorities later apprehended additional suspects, bringing the total number to 19.
A viral video circulating on social media showed a disturbing scene where a man in police uniform was allegedly beaten and forced to kneel in public. The clip, which lasted over three minutes, sparked outrage and drew widespread condemnation.
According to Gotan, the arrests followed a coordinated intelligence-led operation carried out on March 29, 2026. He added that efforts were ongoing to track down other individuals involved in the assault.
He warned that anyone found aiding or harbouring suspects would face serious legal consequences, reiterating that justice would be served regardless of the status of those involved.
The police commissioner assured residents of Osun State that all perpetrators would be brought to justice, emphasizing that the action was necessary to deter future attacks on law enforcement officers.
Meanwhile, one of the suspects, identified as Hazmat Ridwan, claimed during questioning that his involvement was limited to resharing a video of the incident originally posted on Facebook.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing as they continue efforts to apprehend other suspects linked to the attack.
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