Policemen have launched a manhunt for one Omotosho Jimoh of Elekoyangan area, Oke-Suna, Ilorin, Kwara State, over the death of his neighbour, Usman Abubakar.

The fleeing suspect reportedly engaged in “hand-to-hand combat” with the deceased on March 20, 2024 over a minor issue which reportedly led to the death of Abubakar.

LEADERSHIP gathered that Usman Abubakar slumped during the altercation, and was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead by a medical personnel.

The spokesperson of the state Police Command, Toun Ejire-Adeyemi, yesterday confirmed the incident in a statement.

She said that the command has commenced investigation into the matter, adding that efforts were underway to apprehend the suspect and ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

The statement reads, “The Kwara State Police Command is saddened to report a tragic incident of culpable homicide which occurred on March 20, 2024, in Ilorin.

“At about 2030hrs on March 20, 2024, Mr. Adebayo Ahmed, a resident of Isale Koko, Ojagboro, Ilorin, reported a distressing incident involving his son, Usman Abubakar.

“It was reported that on the same day around 1930hrs, Usman engaged in a hand-to-hand combat with one Omotosho Jimoh of Elekoyangan area, Oke-Suna, Ilorin, over a minor issue.

“Tragically, during the altercation, Usman Abubakar slumped and was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead by medical personnel.

“Immediately, the scene of the crime was visited, the necessary documentation carried out. However, the family of the deceased has declined releasing the body for autopsy, insisting on burial according to Islamic rites.

“At present, the suspect, Omotosho Jimoh, is at large. The Kwara State Police Command has initiated preliminary investigation into the matter, and efforts are underway to apprehend the suspect and ascertain the full circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident.

“The command assures the public that every effort is being made to bring the perpetrators to justice. Further updates on this case will be communicated as the investigation progresses”.