Oyo police swing into action as ‘bandits’ send threat note to community

By John Ogunsemore

The Oyo State Police Command said it has commenced investigation into a threat note written in Yoruba and English by suspected bandits and sent to residents of Ikoyi-Ile, Orire Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesman, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade disclosed this in a Saturday statement.

He said the handwritten note, which was allegedly dropped in front of a residential building, threatened an attack on the Ikoyi-Ile community.

Ayanlade said upon receipt of the report, Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Femi Haruna immediately activated the command’s intelligence, tactical, and operational response architecture.

He said the State Intelligence Department (SID), in close collaboration with tactical units, was directed to commence intensive debriefing of all persons connected with the discovery of the note, while operational assets were promptly deployed and repositioned within Ikoyi-Ile and its surrounding communities.

The statement reads, “As part of deliberate and visible security actions, armed patrols, stop-and-search operations, intelligence surveillance, and strategic area domination have been significantly reinforced.

“Police personnel are currently on 24-hour high alert, with sustained ground presence to deny criminal elements any opportunity to operate or exploit the situation.

“The Area Command has equally been directed to maintain constant supervision and continuous patrol coverage across the affected axis.”

Ayanlade further disclosed that the command has launched a thorough and intelligence-driven investigation into the origin, authenticity, and intent of the said note.

“The command wishes to state unequivocally that every lead is being pursued, and no effort will be spared in uncovering the truth behind this threat and ensuring that any individuals or groups found responsible are decisively dealt with in accordance with the law,” the spokesman stated.

The command reassured the good people of Ikoyi-Ile and residents across Oyo State that there is no cause for panic and encouraged the public to go about their lawful daily activities without fear, while remaining security-conscious.

Ayanlade said, “Robust security measures have been fully activated and are already in place to safeguard lives and property.

“Residents will continue to observe increased police visibility, patrol presence, and security engagements, all aimed at guaranteeing peace and public safety.

“Furthermore, the Oyo State Police Command is working in close coordination with other security agencies and community security stakeholders, ensuring a unified and proactive security posture across the State.”

The command urged citizens to promptly report any suspicious persons, movements, or activities through the nearest police station, security post, or established emergency channels, noting that timely information remains critical to preventive policing.