The Ondo State Police Command has issued a strong warning against jungle justice after a teenage boy lost his life in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area, following accusations that he unlawfully harvested cocoa pods.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred at the Alumni Quarters in Akungba, where a man allegedly assaulted the boy for plucking cocoa from his farm. The victim, left unconscious after the beating, was later taken to the police station around 2:30 p.m. and rushed for medical treatment. Sadly, doctors confirmed his death hours after arrival at the hospital.
Confirming the development, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the suspect has been apprehended and the matter transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Akure for a comprehensive probe. He noted that the deceased’s body has been deposited in the hospital mortuary for autopsy.
SP Olayinka strongly condemned the act of mob or individual attacks in response to alleged crimes, warning that such actions undermine the rule of law and disturb societal peace. He urged community members to always report suspected offenders to security agencies rather than resort to self-help
