The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspected ritualists in connection with the unlawful possession of an item believed to be a human skull during a joint intelligence-led operation in Ijio, Oyo State.

According to a press statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the arrests followed credible intelligence received by the command regarding the activities of a suspect allegedly in possession of the suspected human skull.

The statement disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed a coordinated operation involving operatives of the Oyo State Police Command and the Amotekun Corps, leading to the arrest of one Shittu Isah of Kajola Area, Ijio.

Police said the suspected human skull was recovered during the operation and has been secured as an exhibit, while the suspect was taken into custody for further investigation.

During interrogation, Isah allegedly confessed to exhuming the suspected human skull from a Muslim burial ground in Ijio. He reportedly told investigators that he did not act alone, leading to the arrest of anotherr suspect, identified as Tunde Ajibade, who is currently assisting police with ongoing investigations.

The command stated that the recovered exhibit has been preserved for forensic examination to determine its true nature while investigators continue efforts to establish the motive behind the alleged offence, uncover the full circumstances surrounding the case and identify any other persons who may be connected to it.

Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Oyo State Police Command assured residents that it remains resolute in protecting lives and property, maintaining public peace and ensuring that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.

The command also urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information capable of preventing and combating crime across the state. (The Sun, excluding headline)