BY LAW IBITOYE
The Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, CP Joseph Eribo, psc, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining peace and security across the state as officers continue to record significant breakthroughs in crime prevention and arrests.
Speaking during a press briefing and parade of suspects at the State Police Headquarters in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, the Commissioner said the Command has intensified intelligence-led operations, including continuous raids on criminal hideouts, bush combing, and visibility policing.
Eribo, who commended the efforts of the Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), operational heads, and intelligence units, emphasized that his administration would not relent in its duty to protect lives and property. He also warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful acts or face the full weight of the law.
“The Command under my leadership will continue to prioritize the safety of lives and properties of all residents of Ekiti State. We urge criminal-minded persons to turn a new leaf or risk facing the consequences,” he stated.
The Commissioner reeled out recent achievements of the Command, including arrests made in cases of conspiracy, stealing, illegal possession of firearms, defilement, and rape thus:
1. Conspiracy, Stealing, and Illegal Possession of Firearms
On September 14, 2025, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) arrested two suspects — Bolaji Kazeem and Isa Sikirulahi — during a surveillance operation in Ado-Ekiti. The duo, intercepted at Isato area on a TVS NEO motorcycle, were found in possession of a locally made pistol loaded with a live cartridge and a battle axe.
During interrogation, they confessed to specializing in stealing vehicles and motorcycles around Ado-Ekiti. They also admitted to having stolen and sold two Toyota Camry cars to a dealer who is currently at large. A stolen motorcycle was later recovered from their hideout at Omisanjana.
2. Conspiracy and Stealing
On September 25, 2025, police officers arrested one Abolaji Rasheed, popularly known as B.J, at Ogotun-Ekiti while attempting to steal a motorcycle along Igbara Odo road. His accomplices managed to flee the scene.
The suspect confessed that his gang specializes in removing parked motorcycles across Ekiti State and selling them in Osun State. One unregistered Boxer Bajaj motorcycle used for the operation was recovered. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate.
3. Stealing
On September 11, 2025, a Toyota Dyna 150 Cabster vehicle was stolen from Tipper Garage, Ijiku-Ijigbo, Ado-Ekiti. Swift police response led to the arrest of two suspects — Mohammed Jamiu and Ahmed — who were intercepted while driving the stolen vehicle out of town.
They confessed to stealing the vehicle for delivery to their “master,” now on the run. The Command has intensified efforts to arrest the fugitive and recover other stolen items.
4 Defilement
The Aramoko Divisional Police Headquarters on September 25, 2025, arrested Ajetomobi Ayomide (22) for repeatedly defiling an 8-year-old girl and threatening to kill her if she spoke out.
The victim’s father had reported the incident after the child disclosed that Ayomide, an apprentice in her father’s shop, had carnal knowledge of her several times since December 2024. Her mother also revealed that the girl had been receiving medical treatment for bleeding since the period of the abuse.
The suspect confessed to the crime and admitted to defiling the child four times. The case has been transferred to the Gender Unit of the State CID for further investigation and prosecution.
5. Rape
On September 22, 2025, Prophet Ajayi Oluwatoyin (40), was arrested by officers from Iworoko Division for allegedly raping a 20-year-old 100-level student of Ekiti State University.
According to the victim, she and her friends had been attending the prophet’s church for prayers. On the day of the incident, she visited alone and was given a liquid substance to drink, after which she lost consciousness. She later woke up to find evidence of rape, with semen stains on her body.
The suspect did not deny committing the act. The case has been transferred to the Gender Unit of the State CID for detailed investigation and prosecution.
Police Commend Public Cooperation
CP Eribo lauded residents for their timely and credible information, which has aided several arrests and recoveries across the state. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or call 0806 233 5577.
“Together, we can build a safer and more secure Ekiti State,” he said