Kwara State command of the Nigeria Police Force has arrested three of its personnel for allegedly assaulting Suleiman Olayinka, a student from Kwara State University (KWASU) in Malete, resulting in his death at Tanke Bridge in Ilorin, the state capital.
The state police command’s spokesperson, DSP Ejire Adeyemi Toun, confirmed this development in a statement made available to newsmen in Ilorin on Friday.
It was reported that the victim had arrived to retrieve N1,000 he had previously transferred to a Point of Sale (POS) operator, intending to give the money to the motorcycle rider who had transported him.
“I was with him; as soon as he got the money, the officers came out of a tricycle and dragged him to the ground. The victim kept asking what offence he had committed, but they didn’t let him speak,” Daily Post quoted an eyewitness to have said.
The individual further explained that the victim pleaded with the officers, informing them that he was asthmatic, but they ignored his pleas.
In a reaction on Friday, the spokesperson said, “The Kwara State police command is aware of this unfortunate incident which led to the sudden death of Suleiman Olayinka (M), 27yrs.
“A complaint of cheating and criminal breach of trust was reported against the deceased. Police detectives were immediately detailed to investigate the case.
“Meanwhile, the officers involved in the incident have been identified, arrested and detained for further investigations as regards the death of the suspect.
“Further updates will be provided promptly as investigations unfold.”
