Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Bandits have ambushed police officers at Budo Masalasi Border Post in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, killing an Inspector.
The incident happened some days after suspected bandits had earlier attacked the National Park Service office in Oloka community in the same Oriire Local Government Area, where they killed five forest rangers.
Eyewitnesses account said, between 10 and 15 bandits attacked a police patrol team at around 1:30pm, which resulted to a gun duel.
The officer was shot dead during the attack, and his AK-47 rifle with 30 rounds of ammunition was seized by the bandits.
The police command, however vowed to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to book.
Speaking on the incident, the Oyo State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said: “Yes, there was an attack on police operatives during which an Inspector, while courageously repelling the attack, paid the supreme price on the line of duty.”
He said that the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, has ordered a manhunt for the attackers, and preliminary findings suggest some of the bandits were injured during the shootout.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to reassure members of the public that adequate security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property.
“Residents are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and report any individuals with gunshot injuries, those seeking medical attention under suspicious circumstances, or persons exhibiting suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station or security agency,” Ayanlade added.
