The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the death of a young boy in Akunmi Quarters, Akungba, following an alleged assault over accusations of plucking cocoa pods from a farm.

According to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the incident occurred on Saturday, September 20, 2025.

The Police said they received a distress report at about 2:30 p.m. that the boy had been severely beaten. He was brought to the station unconscious and was immediately referred for urgent medical attention. Unfortunately, he was confirmed dead at about 5:36 p.m. at the hospital.

The complainant in the matter has since been arrested, while the deceased’s remains were deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Akure, for further investigation.

Condemning the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, warned against jungle justice, stressing that no citizen should take the law into their own hands.

> “This tragic development is unacceptable. Members of the public must resist the temptation of resorting to self-help. All infractions, disputes, or criminal acts should be reported to the Police so that due process of law can prevail,” the statement quoted the CP as saying.



While sympathizing with the family of the deceased, CP Lawal assured that the matter would be handled with fairness, professionalism, and strict adherence to the rule of law.

The Command also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his support to state commands, noting that his policing agenda has strengthened the ability of the Ondo Command to respond swiftly to incidents and maintain law and order.

The Police urged residents to continue to collaborate with security agencies in ensuring peace and security across the state.