The Kwara State Police Command has announced the arrest of six individuals in connection with the murder of 34-year-old motorcyclist, Rafiu Akao. His decapitated body was discovered in the Asunlere area of Oke-Oyi, Kwara State. Reports indicate that the suspects disposed of Akao’s head in a nearby community river, leaving his body on the riverbank.
The crime was reported on November 4, 2024, when local residents discovered Akao’s headless body near a stream. Police recovered an Itel Android phone and a motorcycle at the crime scene, which are believed to be linked to the suspects. Following intelligence-led investigations, police arrested two primary suspects—Peter Samuel, 38, and Jeremiah Tiozinda, 26—on November 6, 2024.
Both suspects reportedly confessed to having disposed of Akao’s head in the river. Efforts are currently underway to locate the missing body part, with the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) leading the investigation.
Kwara State Police Commissioner, Victor Olaiya, also condemned an incident involving an innocent farmer who was wrongfully attacked by villagers and commercial motorcyclists. The suspects, Yusuf Abdulkareem, 22, and Jaiyeola Fatai, 40, are facing charges of conspiracy, public disturbance, and mischief for damaging the farmer’s vehicle.
Olaiya urged the public to avoid vigilantism, warning that such actions would be met with strict enforcement measures. The police also addressed false claims circulating on social media, which implicated a local eatery, “Item7,” in Akao’s murder. The individual responsible for spreading these baseless rumors, Abdulwakeel Olajuwon, allegedly used his platform, “Weaky TV,” to suggest the eatery owner’s involvement in the crime.
The police emphasized that spreading false information that disrupts public order or misleads an investigation is a serious offense under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015. Olajuwon has since been apprehended and will be charged for his role in spreading misinformation.
In conclusion, the Kwara State Police reassured the public that every resource is being used to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice. The police also urged the community to rely on verified information from law enforcement channels and to refrain from spreading unverified claims, especially in sensitive cases.
The investigation is ongoing, with efforts being made to ensure justice for Rafiu Akao.