Police arrest six suspects over motorcyclist’s murder in Kwara

. Warn public against spreading false information
The Kwara State Police Command has announced the arrest of six suspects linked to the alleged murder of a 34-year-old motorcyclist, Rafiu Akao, whose decapitated body was discovered in the Asunlere area of Oke-Oyi, Kwara State.

The suspects reportedly disposed of Akao’s head in a community river, leaving his body on the riverbank.

Commissioner of Police Victor Olaiya disclosed details of the case while cautioning the public against misinformation and unauthorised vigilante actions.

According to Olaiya, the crime was reported on November 4, 2024, when Akao’s headless body was found by locals near a stream. Investigators recovered an Itel Android phone and a motorcycle believed to be linked to the suspects at the scene.

Following intelligence leads, police apprehended two primary suspects—Peter Samuel, 38, and Jeremiah Tiozinda, 26—on November 6, 2024.

Both men reportedly confessed, admitting they had disposed of Akao’s head in a nearby river. Efforts are ongoing to locate the missing body part, with the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) dedicating resources to ensure a thorough investigation.

Olaiya also condemned a recent attack on an innocent farmer who was wrongly accused by villagers and commercial motorcyclists.

The farmer’s vehicle was damaged by Yusuf Abdulkareem, 22, and Jaiyeola Fatai, 40, who now face charges of conspiracy, public disturbance, and mischief.

Warning against vigilantism, Olaiya said, “The public must avoid hasty actions. Vigilantism will be met with strict enforcement measures.”

In addition, the police addressed false claims circulating on social media, which implicated a local eatery, “Item7,” in the murder. The individual behind the rumour, Abdulwakeel Olajuwon, allegedly shared these claims via his online platform, “Weaky TV,” suggesting the eatery owner’s involvement in the crime.

The police warned that spreading false information that disrupts public order or misleads an investigation is a serious offence under Nigerian law.

According to Section 24 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015, knowingly disseminating false information to incite or cause harm carries severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

“Abdulwakeel Olajuwon has been apprehended and will be arraigned to face charges for his role in spreading false information,” the police said, emphasising that the spread of unverified information, especially in sensitive matters, is not only irresponsible but also a punishable offence.

“We assure the public that every resource is being deployed to bring those responsible for this crime to justice and that all efforts will continue until the investigation is concluded.

“We thank the community for their vigilance and cooperation and urge everyone to rely on verified information from law enforcement channels,” the police statement added.