Ondo: Boy beaten to death over cocoa pods

A young boy has been beaten to death for allegedly plucking cocoa pods in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The young boy was said to be assaulted at Alumni quarters in Akungba by a man who accused him of harvesting his cocoa unlawfully.

It was gathered that the assault, the victim was brought to the police station unconscious about 2:30p.m., and was immediately referred for medical treatment.

He was, however, confirmed dead a few hours after he was rushed to the hospital.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, said the suspect has been arrested.

Ayanlade stated that the body of the deceased had been deposited in the hospital mortuary for autopsy.

According to him, the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, in Akure for thorough investigation to ensure that justice is served.

The police spokesperson condemned the incident and called on residents to refrain from taking laws into their own hands, describing such actions as counterproductive to societal peace and justice.