The Ondo State Police Command has detailed the tragic circumstances under which three officers lost their lives during a routine patrol on the Ore highway in the Odigbo council area. The unfortunate incident occurred when a DAF truck traveling towards Lagos lost control, crossed the median barrier, and collided with the police patrol vehicle heading toward Ore.
The command’s spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, confirmed the incident in Akure, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. She revealed that while three officers tragically died in the crash, a fourth officer, who sustained injuries, is currently recovering in the hospital.
Civilian Victim Clarified
Addressing concerns about another casualty, Odunlami clarified that a woman who also died in the crash was not connected to the police in any way. “She was merely attending to personal errands along the highway when the accident happened,” Odunlami explained.
The spokesperson also condemned circulating false narratives that misrepresented the deceased woman as a suspect in police custody. “We appeal for sensitivity and accuracy in reporting incidents like this. Spreading falsehoods not only dishonors the deceased but also intensifies the grief of their families,” she said.
Overspeeding Blamed for the Crash
The State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Samuel Ibitoye, attributed the crash to overspeeding by the trailer driver. He confirmed that the remains of the victims have been deposited at the Ore General Hospital morgue.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the importance of adhering to road safety regulations. The Ondo State Police Command and FRSC urge all road users to prioritize safety to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
