The Oyo State Police Command successfully intercepted a planned bandit attack at Elebe Village, Aleniboro, near Irawo Mine in Atisbo Local Government Area, neutralizing two armed assailants.
According to a statement from the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, the operation was triggered by credible intelligence provided by a concerned citizen, which alerted security personnel to the presence of approximately 10 armed Fulani men hiding in a farm settlement with intentions to raid the community under cover of darkness.
The suspects were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles, single-barrel firearms, and locally made pistols, and were openly discussing plans to attack residents.
Following the tip-off, the Divisional Police Officer of Tede Division immediately informed the State Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, who ordered the deployment of additional security forces. Officers, working alongside local hunters, quickly moved to the location. Upon encountering the security team, the bandits opened fire, resulting in a gun duel that left two attackers dead, while others escaped, reportedly injured.
During a subsequent search of the area, authorities recovered one locally made pistol, two live cartridges, one empty cartridge, two spent AK-47 shells, suspected Indian hemp, two mobile phones, and a bottle containing a suspicious liquid.
Ayanlade confirmed that Elebe Village has been secured and reassured residents that continuous surveillance and bush combing operations are ongoing to apprehend fleeing suspects and prevent further threats.
The police also called for community support, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to the nearest security formation, emphasizing that intelligence from the public is crucial in combating crime effectively.
The Commissioner of Police commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for providing strategic leadership and operational resources that enhanced the command’s response to security threats.
