Police arrest four over killing of NDLEA officer in Ondo

The Ondo State Police Command on Thursday said it had arrested four suspects in connection with the killing of an operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in Ondo town.

The officer, identified simply as Jide, was reportedly shot dead on Tuesday during a raid by NDLEA operatives on a building in the Itanla area, where hard drugs were allegedly being stored.

The police command, in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Mr Olayinka Ayanlade, also confirmed that a single-barrel firearm suspected to have been used in the attack was also recovered.

The statement read, “The Ondo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a significant breakthrough in connection with the tragic killing of an operative of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, who was gunned down in the line of duty, at Itanla, Ondo.

Upon receipt of the report, police operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene. Through a prompt and coordinated response, four suspects were arrested in connection with the shooting.

“This proactive response underscores the command’s unwavering commitment to upholding the mission and vision of the Inspector-General of Police, which advocates for a people-centred policing approach that is professional, accountable, and firmly rooted in the principles of the rule of law.

“Investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further updates will be communicated to the public in due course.”

He reiterated the command’s commitment to public safety and said the police would continue working with other security agencies to maintain law and order in the state.