Two killed as police foil terrorist attack in Oyo

The Oyo State Police Command has thwarted what it described as a planned deadly attack on Elebe Village, Aleniboro, via Irawo Mine, k!lling two suspected armed bandits during an intelligence-led operation.

The command said the breakthrough followed a tip-off from a resident who reported that about 10 armed men had concealed themselves at a farm settlement in Elebe Village and were allegedly planning to attack the community at night. The suspects were said to be armed with AK-47 rifles, single-barrel guns and locally made pistols.

According to the police, the Divisional Police Officer of Tede Division alerted the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, who ordered the immediate deployment of additional personnel. Officers, working alongside members of the Agbekoya group and local hunters, moved to the identified location.

Police said the suspects opened fire on sighting the advancing security team, leading to a gun battle. Two of the men were shot dead, while others reportedly fled with suspected gunshot wounds.

During a subsequent search of the area, officers recovered a locally made pistol, empty and live cartridges, expended 7.62mm AK-47 shells, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, two mobile phones and a bottle containing a suspected mixed drink.

The command said the area has been secured and that ongoing surveillance and bush-combing operations are aimed at arresting the fleeing suspects and preventing further threats to the community.

“The Command further solicits sustained cooperation and timely intelligence from members of the public, emphasizing that community support remains a critical pillar in the ongoing fight against criminality,” the police said.

Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to security agencies, including through the Oyo State emergency numbers.