The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two men in connection with the killing of a 20-year-old bricklayer in Budo Mosalasi village, Saki, following what detectives described as an intelligence-led operation triggered by credible public information.

The suspects, Lateef Giwa, 35, and Adediran Quazim, were apprehended after investigators established their alleged roles in the death of Abdulraheem Koni, a young labourer who reportedly died from injuries sustained during an assault.

Police said the arrests were made swiftly to prevent further violence and to preserve public safety in the area.

According to the Command, preliminary investigations revealed that Giwa was the employer of the deceased.

A disagreement reportedly broke out during work, escalating into a physical confrontation. Police allege that Giwa, with the assistance of Quazim, assaulted Koni, inflicting bruises and other bodily injuries. Although the victim was said to have received medical attention, he later succumbed to the injuries, prompting a full-scale investigation.

Sources within the Command confirmed that both suspects have made “useful confessions,” detailing their involvement in the incident. Medical examination of the deceased reportedly corroborated evidence of assault, strengthening the case and necessitating further forensic and investigative scrutiny.

In a move to ensure transparency and professionalism, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Femi Haruna, has ordered the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). The transfer, police said, is to guarantee a comprehensive, discreet, and intelligence-driven investigation, in line with standard operating procedures for homicide cases.

The Command described the breakthrough as a reflection of proactive policing and the value of timely intelligence from the public. It urged residents to continue to support law enforcement efforts by volunteering credible information, noting that community cooperation remains critical to preventing the escalation of violent crimes.

Police authorities also reiterated their commitment to bringing all those responsible for criminal acts to justice, stressing that no individual is above the law. The Command said it remains focused on safeguarding lives and property across Oyo State, particularly in rural and semi-urban communities where labour-related disputes can quickly spiral into violence.

The Oyo State Police Command further acknowledged the strategic leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, whose support, it said, continues to strengthen intelligence-led policing and operational effectiveness nationwide.

The Command reaffirmed its readiness to respond promptly to threats to public peace and safety. (The Guardian)