Police neutralise 2 bandits, foil planned attack on Oyo community

By Oluseye Ojo

The Oyo State  Police Command has foiled a planned bandit attack on  Elebe Village, Oyo State, neutralising two suspected bandits during a gun duel ,while others fled with s gunshot injuries.

Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer(PPRO),disclosed this to journalists yesterday, saying  that the operation was carried out through intelligence-led policing and rapid tactical response aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.

According to him, the breakthrough followed credible intelligence from a good Nigerian, who alerted security operatives to the presence of about 10 armed Fulani men hiding in a farm settlement in Elebe Village, allegedly planning to launch a night attack. The suspects were reportedly armed with two AK-47 rifles, single-barrel guns and locally fabricated pistols and were overheard discussing plans to unleash violence on the community.

Olayinka explained that upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer, Tede Division, promptly informed the Commissioner of Police, who immediately ordered the deployment of additional operational assets.

He said police operatives, working alongside Agbekoya movement and local hunters in Aleniboro, swiftly mobilised to the hideout,” On sighting the approaching security team, the suspects opened fire, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. Two of the bandits were neutralised during the encounter, while others escaped into the bush with  bullet wounds. A reinforcement team later conducted an extensive combing of the surrounding forest.

“Items recovered at the scene include : a  locally made pistol, empty and live cartridges, expended 7.62mm AK-47 shells, substances suspected to be Indian hemp, two Tecno button phones and a bottle containing a suspected mixed drink.

“The command said the area has been secured while surveillance and bush-combing operations continue to track down fleeing suspects and eliminate any lingering threat.

“ Commissioner of Police also commended the Inspector-General of Police, , for providing strategic leadership and operational support to strengthen the command’s response to security threats.”

The police urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely intelligence, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in the fight against criminality.