The Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps (So-Safe Corps) has arrested a 24-year-old scavenger, Ibrahim Ridwan, for robbing and brutally attacking a cleric.

The suspect chopped off the finger and ear of the victim, Tella Orelope, a shepherd of Orelope Parish, Abule Owe, Greenland Community along Randa in Abeokuta North Local Government Area.

The Director of Information and Public Relations of the corps, Assistant Commander Moruf Yusuf, who disclosed this in a statement said the incident occurred on Thursday, July 18, 2024.

According to the spokesperson, the suspect sneaked into the church to steal electronics appliances, cables and the shepherd's motorcycle.

“On July 18, 2024, at about 4 am, the Corps received information that the Shepherd was under attack by armed robbers. The Special Squad of the Corps, led by ACC Elijah Ogundimu, was deployed to rescue the victim and apprehend the suspects,” the statement read.

"Upon arrival, the team found the victim with severe injuries, including a chopped off finger and ear

"The suspect, Ibrahim Ridwan, 24, who resides under a scavenger shed behind Railway Police Station, Lafenwa, Abeokuta, was apprehended at the scene

“Ridwan confessed that his mission was to loot the church, stealing the Shepherd’s motorbike, electronic appliances, cables, etc. He also admitted to attacking the shepherd’s wife, who heard the noise and tried to escape.”

Exhibits recovered from the suspect include a cutlass, scissors, and pliers.

The suspect and exhibits have been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force, Sabo Ilupeju Divisional Headquarters for further investigation and likely prosecution.

Commander Ganzallo commended the Special Squad for their swift response and praised the Corps for their efforts in ensuring the safety and security of citizens in Ogun State.