Police Inspector Killed As Gunmen Attack Security Operatives In Oyo
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
An Inspector of Police has been killed during an attack on police operatives at the Budo Masalasi Border Post in Oyo State, triggering an immediate manhunt and a comprehensive investigation by the Oyo State Police Command.
Confirming the incident on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the attack occurred while officers were on duty, adding that the Commissioner of Police had ordered an intensive operation to track down the perpetrators and recover the stolen weapon.
The latest attack comes just weeks after suspected bandits assaulted the National Park Service office in Oloka Community, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, killing five forest rangers and raising fresh concerns over security in border and forested areas of the state.
The slain officer, Inspector Aliu Oluwole, was said to have died while bravely repelling the attackers. During the encounter, the assailants reportedly made away with his AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition (breach number 4516).
DSP Olayinka disclosed that preliminary investigations indicate that some of the attackers sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and are currently being pursued by security operatives.
He described the attack as a heinous act and reaffirmed the Command’s determination to bring those responsible to justice.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the perpetrators of this crime are apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” he said.
The Police Command further assured residents that enhanced security measures have been deployed across the state and urged
members of the public to remain vigilant. Citizens were advised to report anyone with gunshot injuries, suspicious medical treatment, or unusual behaviour to the nearest police station or security agency as investigations and the manhunt continue.
