By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi 

19 suspects have been arrested by the Ondo State Police Command following a violent cult clash that shook Owo, the headquarters of Owo Local Government Area, earlier this week.

The newly deployed Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, confirmed the arrests during an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas on Tuesday.

He assured the public that those found guilty would face the full weight of the law.

The deadly confrontation, which erupted on Monday, claimed the lives of five individuals and prompted the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to impose a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the ancient town.

CP Afolabi noted that his visit was aimed at monitoring compliance with the curfew and assessing the situation on the ground.

Speaking to journalists, the police commissioner disclosed that peace had been restored in the troubled areas, including Ehin Ogbe, Ijebu Owo, and the palace vicinity, which his team visited.

He assured residents that all remaining suspects involved in the clashes would be apprehended, emphasising the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

“So far, normalcy has returned, and there is calm and peace across the town.

“Currently, we have 19 suspects in our custody, and our records confirm four deaths. For peace-loving citizens, we assure them of a conducive environment. However, for those who hate peace, they will not find it easy with us. Wherever they go, we will track them down, and the law will catch up with them,” Afolabi stated.

The Commissioner reiterated his determination to ensure that Owo remains safe for its residents and warned miscreants to steer clear of the town.