Crime

Drug Dealer Killed in Ondo: 56-Year-Old Shot at Popular Joint

By Editorial Staff

A 56-year-old suspected drug dealer, Bode Akinsiku, was killed by unknown assailants in Ondo town, headquarters of Ondo Local Government Area of Ondo State on Tuesday morning.

The incident occurred around 6:15 am at a popular joint in Loro street, Odosida axis of the town. According to sources, Akinsiku, who was reportedly a prominent drug dealer in the area, was shot at close range after being trailed to the location by his killers.

How The Attack Happened

An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, revealed that Akinsiku had arrived at the bar early Tuesday morning to meet with some individuals. "He arrived at the bar and met with some people. While he was talking with them, his phone rang and he received a call," the source stated.

"It was while he was receiving the call that some boys arrived on a motorcycle. One of the boys approached him and asked if he could identify himself. They both engaged in a heated shouting match for some seconds before he was shot several times at close range."

The witness further explained that after shooting Akinsiku, the gunman crossed to the opposite side of the road and fired shots in the air to frighten residents before escaping on a waiting motorcycle.

Community Reaction and Police Response

The killing sparked panic throughout the area, with shops and businesses quickly closing down as residents fled for fear of potential arrests. Police officers from Enuowa Divisional Police Station later arrived at the scene and transported Akinsiku's body to the Ondo State Specialist Hospital.

Ondo State Police spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident, describing it as cult-related. Ayanlade noted that cult clashes have become increasingly common in the area and assured that efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible for the killing.

"We urge residents to be law-abiding and report any information which could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators," the police spokesman added.

This incident adds to growing security concerns in Ondo State, where authorities have been working to address various forms of criminal activities, including cult-related violence.