Two suspected bandits killed as Police thwart attack on Oyo community

The Oyo State Police Command has foiled a planned attack on Irawo town in the Oke Ogun area of the state, killing two suspected bandits during a gun battle with security operatives and local hunters.

The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed the development in a statement on Tuesday, describing the operation as a “remarkable display of operational prowess, proactive policing strategy, and intelligence-driven crime prevention.”

According to him, the operation successfully thwarted a planned attack on Elebe Village, Aleniboro, via Irawo Mine.

“The operation, executed with precision and swift tactical coordination, underscores the Command’s unwavering commitment to intelligence gathering, rapid response capability, and the protection of vulnerable communities from criminal elements,” the statement read.

Olayinka said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence from a good Samaritan who alerted security operatives to the presence of about 10 armed suspects described as Fulani men. The suspects were reportedly hiding in a farm settlement within Elebe Village, allegedly planning to attack the community under the cover of darkness.

“They were armed with two AK-47 rifles, single-barrel guns, and cut-to-size locally made pistols, while openly discussing their intention to unleash violence on the village,” he stated.

Upon receiving the information, the Divisional Police Officer of Tede Division informed the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, who immediately ordered the deployment of additional operational assets to ensure the mission’s success.

Police operatives, working in collaboration with members of the Agbekoya local hunters in Aleniboro, mobilised to the suspects’ hideout. On sighting the security team, the suspected bandits reportedly opened fire, leading to a gun duel.

The police said two of the suspects were neutralised during the exchange, while others escaped with possible gunshot wounds.

Reinforcements were subsequently deployed to restore calm in the area as investigations continue. Security operatives have also intensified bush combing and surveillance operations to track down the fleeing suspects and eliminate any remaining threats to Elebe Village and neighbouring communities.

Items recovered from the scene include a cut-to-size locally made pistol, one empty cartridge, two live cartridges, two expended 7.62mm AK-47 shells allegedly fired by the suspects, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, two Tecno button phones, and a bottle containing a liquid believed to be a mixed drink.

The Command assured residents that the area has been secured and urged members of the public to sustain cooperation with security agencies by providing timely intelligence.

It also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest security formation.