A suspected cover-up was foiled in Akute as Ogun police caught a suspect in the act of burying a blood-drenched corpse, leading to the arrest of three individuals over an alleged murder.
The Ogun State Police Command said the suspects were apprehended on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at about 11:15 a.m., following a timely tip-off from concerned residents who reported suspicious movements in the area.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, said detectives from the Ajuwon Division swiftly mobilised to the scene, where they made a shocking discovery.
“Acting on credible information, our detectives promptly moved to the location and caught one of the suspects in the process of attempting to bury a blood-drenched corpse in a shallow grave,” Babaseyi stated.
“This swift intervention effectively foiled what appears to have been a calculated attempt to conceal a heinous crime.”
She identified the suspects as Maureen Okirie, 35; Salia Karikari, 15; and Jubril Karikari, 12, noting that preliminary findings indicate they are relatives of the deceased, Stanley Okirie, aged 38.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the victim sustained a severe head injury, suspected to have been inflicted with a wooden pestle, which has since been recovered as an exhibit,” she said.
“Evidence at the scene suggests a coordinated effort among the suspects to both commit the crime and conceal it.”
Babaseyi described the incident as deeply disturbing, particularly given the apparent familial link between the suspects and the victim.
“This is a tragic and disturbing case, especially as it involves individuals who are closely related to the deceased,” she noted.
“Such acts not only violate the law but also erode the fundamental values of trust and humanity within families and communities.”
She further disclosed that the body has been deposited at the Life Channel Mortuary in Olambe for autopsy, while the suspects remain in custody.
“The remains of the deceased have been evacuated to the mortuary for further examination, while the suspects are currently in custody,” Babaseyi added.
“They will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Eleweran, for detailed investigation and subsequent prosecution.”
Reiterating the Command’s zero tolerance for violent crimes and attempts to obstruct justice, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, condemned the act in strong terms.
“The Commissioner of Police has described the incident as cruel, inhumane and unacceptable under any circumstance,” Babaseyi said.
“He has directed that a thorough and transparent investigation be carried out to ensure that all those found culpable face the full weight of the law.”
The Police spokesperson also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with timely information.
“We urge residents to remain security conscious and promptly report any suspicious activities to the Police,” she emphasized.
“Timely information, as demonstrated in this case, is critical in preventing crime and ensuring justice is served.”
She reassured the public of the Command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order across Ogun State.
“The Ogun State Police Command remains resolute in its duty to protect lives and property and will not relent in its efforts to rid the State of criminal elements,” Babaseyi said.
“We encourage sustained cooperation from the public in achieving a safer society for all.”
