Police officers from the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit of the Nigeria Police Force have been accused of stealing mobile phones worth over N1 million from a shop in Idogun, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State. The incident, captured on CCTV, reportedly occurred on March 22, 2025, amid heightened tension in the community.
Seketi Adebowale, the shop owner, shared CCTV footage showing two policemen entering his store and leaving with items. He posted three videos on social media, including one showing an expelled shell casing. Adebowale alleges that the SWAT officers were involved in a larger conflict between a Navy captain, Jide Falade, and the local king.
The unrest began after the community’s king accused Falade of armed robbery and kidnapping. Following his arrest and court appearance on March 21, tensions escalated when supporters of Falade protested his detention. On March 22, SWAT officers reportedly used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse protesters, leading to violent clashes. Protesters retaliated by throwing stones, forcing police to retreat.
Adebowale claims that SWAT officers targeted specific homes and shops under the king’s instructions during the unrest. His shop was among those affected. He further alleged that police assaulted residents, including women and children, and even killed animals during their operations.
In one video shared online, a woman and her son displayed injuries allegedly inflicted by police officers. The son claimed he was beaten with sticks, while the woman recounted being threatened with death. “They kicked the door open and came in. They cut my son with a cutlass and used the blunt part to beat me. One of them threatened to slash my head,” she said.
The Ondo State Police Command has refuted claims of theft by its officers. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Command acknowledged that policemen were deployed to Idogun for intervention but denied the existence of any phone shop in the area. “The video is misleading as it has been confirmed by the traditional leader, stakeholders, and men on duty that there is no mobile phone shop in Idogun,” the statement read.
The Command urged anyone with evidence to file a formal complaint with the Commissioner of Police for proper investigation.
Adebowale has called for an independent investigation into the actions of the SWAT officers and justice for victims of alleged police misconduct during the unrest. The incident has sparked widespread outrage online, with many Nigerians demanding accountability from law enforcement agencies.
