The Osun State Government has confirmed the arrest of Moses Lohor, the leader of the Police Anti-Kidnapping Squad in the state, following allegations of attempted murder. This decision came after an order by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to immediately arrest and prosecute Lohor and members of his team.

The announcement was made by Samuel Ojo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, through a statement by Olawale Rasheed, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s spokesperson. The statement followed a closed-door meeting between Governor Adeleke and the State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Umar Abba.

The controversy started on Monday night when the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, led by Lohor, reportedly shot Wakeel Nurudeen Iyanda Alowonle, the Chairman of the Osun State Transport Management System. According to the police, Alowonle was shot while trying to escape arrest after a pistol and ammunition were allegedly found in his car.

However, the Osun State Government has described the incident as a case of suspected murder. In a statement by Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, it was alleged that Lohor shot Alowonle in the abdomen at the police station following a domestic dispute with a neighbor.

Alowonle is currently on life support at the Intensive Care Unit of the Osun State Teaching Hospital in Osogbo. Samuel Ojo stated that Lohor’s actions were seen as unprofessional and illegal, violating police conduct and operational codes.

As of Wednesday morning, Lohor and his team have been transferred to Abuja for further investigation.

This arrest highlights the importance of accountability within law enforcement and the commitment of the Osun State Government to uphold justice.

“We can confirm that the police authorities at the highest level have acted decisively on this matter. A clear punitive directive was issued by the IG. Mr Governor has directed we follow up to ensure that justice is served.”