Osun Mosque Death: Police arrest four suspects, including an Imam, after a worshipper died following an incident at a mosque
The Osun State Police Command on Friday confirmed the arrest of four suspects, including an Imam, in connection with the death of a worshipper, Najeem Hammed, following an incident at a mosque in the Ogo-Oluwa area of the state.
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According to police and eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred during early morning prayers at the Ummu Hanni Adigun Memorial Central Mosque.
Sources said the deceased was involved in a disturbance after allegedly attempting to attack the presiding Imam during a sermon.
A resident familiar with the incident, who spoke on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said Hammed became agitated during the sermon and allegedly tried to strike the cleric with a microphone stand but missed.
The source said other worshippers intervened, restrained him and dragged him outside the mosque premises.
Another member of the congregation, who also requested anonymity, confirmed the account during a visit to the mosque on Friday evening.
He said the Imam was delivering his sermon when Hammed approached the pulpit and attempted to hit him, prompting panic among worshippers.
“The Imam was frightened and ran for safety. Some worshippers seized Hammed and dragged him outside.
He was injured during the incident,” the source said, adding that the matter was later reported at the Ataoja Police Division.
It was gathered that Hammed’s condition worsened while in police custody and he was rushed to a hospital, where he was later confirmed dead.
Following the incident, tension reportedly rose in the area after family members and associates of the deceased allegedly stormed the mosque during Jumaat prayers and threatened to attack worshippers, prompting heightened security presence.
Confirming the development, the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, said four suspects had been arrested and that a full investigation was underway.
“The incident happened this morning shortly after 6am. Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the case,” Mr Ojelabi said.
“The Divisional Police Officer and tactical teams have been deployed to maintain law and order. The corpse has been deposited at the Osun State Teaching Hospital.”
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The police said investigations would determine the circumstances surrounding the Osun Mosque Death and establish individual culpability as part of ongoing efforts to ensure justice and prevent a breakdown of public order.
