Abstract: This study examines the nature of crime and punishment in traditional Yoruba society. The main problem identified in this article is that there is yet a comprehensive historical interpretation of crime and its control in traditional Yoruba society. The data used in this study were obtained from oral discussion with informants as well as the information derived from books. Our findings revealed that offences such as incest, stealing, Adultery and treasonable felony were regarded as serious crimes in Yoruba society and were seriously sanctioned to maintain peace and order in Yorubaland. The study concludes that the Yoruba Oba, elders and Chiefs participated in the administration of Justice in Yoruba Society. Hence, Modalities for prevention of crime were highly and Strictly adhered to.