Three police officers have been arrested and detained in connection with the alleged fatal beating of Suleiman Olayinka, a student at Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete, at Tanke Bridge in Ilorin.
The spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Ejire Adeyemi Toun, confirmed the development in a statement released in Ilorin on Friday.
Reports indicate that the incident occurred on Tuesday around 2 p.m. after Olayinka dismounted from a motorcycle. He was reportedly confronted by three officers, who then forced him to the ground.
According to an eyewitness, Olayinka was at the location to withdraw N1,000 from a Point of Sale (POS) operator, intending to pay the motorcycle rider.
“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,” the witness said.
The eyewitness also noted that Olayinka informed the officers that he was asthmatic and pleaded for consideration, but they ignored his pleas.
In response to the incident, DSP Toun stated, “The Kwara State police command is aware of this unfortunate incident that led to the sudden death of Suleiman Olayinka (M) at 27 years.”
The police spokesperson further explained, “A complaint of cheating and criminal breach of trust was reported against the deceased. Police detectives were immediately detailed to investigate the case.”
DSP Toun added that the officers involved have been identified, detained, and are currently under investigation regarding Olayinka’s death.
“Further updates will be provided promptly as investigations unfold,” she assured.
