The police in Ondo State have come under severe criticism following the death of a 23-year-old Dada Yusuf, in their custody after alleged torture.
The deceased’s family has demanded justice and accountability from the Ondo State Police Command over his death.
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The family alleged that Yusuf was arrested on August 31, 2023, by operatives of the “Scorpion Squad” in Akure who subjected him to harsh treatment, leading to his collapse.
It was gathered that members of the Scorpion Squad appeared intoxicated during the incident, violently harassing both Mr Yusuf and other bystanders.
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Afolabi Bisoye, a relative, told journalists that one Olayiya Kasim, an Inspector, led the squad that brutalised Mr Yusuf, resulting in severe injuries, including a gunshot wound to the chest.
He said despite Mr Yusuf ‘s critical condition, the police reportedly attempted to cover up the incident by taking him to the Police Clinic in Akure before transferring him to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo for further treatment.
He further said Mr Yusuf spent several days on oxygen support at the Federal Medical Centre, but tragically passed away on 7 September, 2023.
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Mr Bisoye insisted that the police should be held to account for the demise of his relative, describing it as unjust.
However, the police have refuted the allegations, stating that Mr Yusuf developed a medical condition while in custody and received prompt medical attention.
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Olayinka Ayanlade, the police public relations officer, asserted that Mr Yusuf died while undergoing dialysis, unrelated to torture.
He said the command has ordered an investigation into the incident, with findings to be made public.
This is not the first the command would confirm the death of a suspect in its custody.
In July, a murder suspect, Femi Oladele, also known as Tallex, died in the custody of the police in Ondo during “a brief illness.”
Mr Oladele was complicit in the abduction and death of two students of the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko – Andrel Okah and John Abba.
Despite the fact that the institution’s student union doubted the claims that the suspect died, demanding for his corpse, the police insisted that his death was natural.
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