The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 32 suspects in connection with a communal clash that claimed two lives on Sunday in the Iwaro area of Akoko South-East Local Government.
CSP Funmilayo Odunlami, the Command’s spokesperson, shared the update with journalists in Akure on Tuesday, stating, “Yes, 32 suspects have been arrested in connection with the communal clash that occurred in the Akoko area on Sunday.
All the suspects are currently in our custody, and investigations are ongoing to determine the root causes of the conflict.”
The clash, which erupted on January 12, 2025, involved youths from the Oka Odo, Ebo, and Owake communities in Iwaro.
Reports indicate that the violence began when youths from Oka Odo, who had gone on a hunting expedition, were allegedly attacked by youths from Ebo.
The Ebo youths are said to have mistaken the Oka Odo group for members of the Owake community, with whom they have an ongoing land dispute.
In retaliation, youths from Oka Odo mobilized and launched an attack on Ebo, resulting in arson and further violence.
The clashes led to the deaths of two individuals, whose identities remain unknown, while several others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment.
The Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, called for peace and calm in the affected communities following the tragic events.
