Suspect tracked through victim’s missing phone as investigation deepens
By A1 News International
Abuja, Nigeria — March 22, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has arrested a 21-year-old suspect over the alleged rape and murder of an elderly woman in Akoko North-East Local Government Area. The arrest, linked to digital tracking of the victim’s missing phone, marks a significant breakthrough in a case that has raised fresh concerns about public safety in rural communities.
What Happened
Police authorities in Ondo State confirmed the arrest of Alabi Anthony in connection with the death of Olaseni Veronica at Iboropa-Akoko, Akoko North-East Local Government Area.
According to the command, the suspect was apprehended following actionable intelligence that led investigators to trace the deceased’s missing mobile phone.
Spokesperson for the command, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that detectives launched a targeted operation which culminated in the arrest.
He further stated that the suspect allegedly confessed to the crime, admitting to sexually assaulting the victim before strangling her.
Police Response and Investigation
The police said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Akure for further investigation and prosecution.
Jimoh assured that the command is committed to ensuring that justice is pursued diligently, emphasizing that all necessary legal processes would be followed.
Authorities are expected to expand the investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including possible premeditation and any additional accomplices.
Background
The incident occurred in a rural community within Akoko North-East, an area where security challenges are often compounded by limited surveillance infrastructure and delayed emergency response.
Cases involving violent crimes against vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly, have continued to generate public concern, with calls for improved policing and community vigilance.
Why It Matters
The case highlights persistent gaps in community-level security and the vulnerability of rural populations to violent crime.
It also underscores the growing role of digital forensics in criminal investigations, as law enforcement agencies increasingly rely on technology to track suspects and solve cases.
The development raises fresh concerns about accountability and oversight in Nigeria’s public institutions.
![Nigerian military prepares to cordon the area where a man was killed by suspected rebel fighters during an attack around the Polo area of Maiduguri, Nigeria, in 2019 [File: Afolabi Sotunde/Reuters]](https://a1news.com.ng/wp/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nigeria-military-on-patrol.webp)
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