Oyo Police Foil ‘Bandit Attack’, Neutralise 2 Suspects

The Oyo State Police Command, on Monday, foiled a planned bandit attack on Elebe Village, Aleniboro, via Irawo Mine in Atisbo Local Government Area of the State, neutralising two suspected members of the group.

The development was disclosed in a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, in Ibadan, who said the operation followed credible intelligence from a concerned resident.

Ayanlade explained that security operatives received information that about 10 armed Fulani men had taken refuge in a farm settlement within Elebe Village, allegedly plotting to attack the community under the cover of darkness.

Providing further details on the foiled attack, Ayanlade stated, “In a remarkable display of operational prowess, proactive policing strategy, and intelligence-driven crime prevention, the command has successfully foiled a planned attack on Elebe Village, Aleniboro, via Irawo Mine.

“The operation, executed with precision and swift tactical coordination, underscores the command’s unwavering commitment to intelligence gathering, rapid response capability, and the protection of vulnerable communities from criminal elements.

“The breakthrough followed credible information from a good Samaritan at the station, alerting security operatives to the presence of about 10 armed Fulani men who had concealed themselves at a farm settlement within Elebe Village with plans to attack the community under the cover of darkness.

“The suspects were reportedly armed with two AK-47 rifles, single-barrel guns, and cut-to-size locally made pistols, while openly discussing their intention to unleash violence on the village.

“Immediately the report was received, the Divisional Police Officer, Tede Division, in line with established operational and regimental chain of command, promptly informed the state Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, who immediately directed the deployment of additional operational assets to ensure the success of the mission.

“Policemen, in collaboration with members of the Agbekoya local hunters at Aleniboro, swiftly mobilised to the identified hideout. On sighting the advancing security operatives, the hoodlums opened fire, resulting in a gun duel. In the course of the exchange, two of the bandits were neutralised, while others escaped with suspected bullet wounds,” the PPRO explained.

He added that a reinforcement patrol team later combed the surrounding forest and recovered: “One cut-to-size locally made pistol; one empty cartridge; two live cartridges; two expended 7.62mm AK-47 ammunition shells fired by the hoodlums; quantities of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp; two Tecno button phones; one bottle containing a substance suspected to be a mixed drink.”

Ayanlade noted that the affected area has been secured, while sustained surveillance and bush-combing operations are ongoing to apprehend fleeing suspects and prevent further threats to Elebe Village and neighbouring communities.

He further stated that the Commissioner of Police commended the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continued support and provision of logistics that have enhanced the command’s operational efficiency.

“The Commissioner of Police appreciates the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continuous support, strategic leadership, and provision of operational logistics that have strengthened the command’s capacity to respond decisively to security threats,” the statement partly read.

The command also appealed to residents to maintain cooperation with security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence, stressing that community participation remains vital in tackling criminal activities.

The PPRO urged members of the public to remain alert and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security formation.