By Kamsi Anayo, Awka
There was a serious altercation between operatives of the Ondo State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, and men of the Nigeria Police Force on Sunday afternoon following a disagreement over the custody of a suspect linked to a stolen motorcycle.
According to one of the injured officers of the Corps, a complainant had visited their office to report a missing motorcycle.
Acting swiftly, the operatives retrieved both the stolen motorcycle and the suspect allegedly involved in the theft.
Shortly after the arrest, police officers arrived and reportedly demanded that the suspect be released into their custody.
According to the hospitalized officer, Amotekun Corps declined the request, stating they would only release the suspect at their headquarters.
The suspect was subsequently taken to the Amotekun office, where further disagreements ensued.
The source added the police mobilized their men and stormed the Amotekun office, injuring many of the personnel in an attempt to forcibly retrieve the suspect.
Meanwhile the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Ayanlade Olushola alleged that Amotekun operatives beat the suspect to a stupor, prompting police intervention.
However, the police PRO said the incident was a misunderstanding between both parties concerning the treatment of the suspect, who they claim was beaten to the point of coma by Amotekun personnel.
He added, that the incident occurred at the Amotekun Corps headquarters in Akure.
“We stepped in to ensure justice is served. Upon getting there, they refused to release the suspect, which eventually led to the altercation.
“I can assure you that the issue has now been resolved amicably.”
