The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of no fewer than nine suspects in connection with a violent attack on Aagba community in Surulere Local Government Area, which resulted in the death of a septuagenarian and the destruction of properties worth millions of naira.
This was disclosed in a statement issued Thursday morning by the command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, and made available to the media.
According to Osifeso, the tragic incident, which occurred on April 5, 2025, led to the killing of a 70-year-old woman, Madam Rachael Bamidele, and forced residents to flee the village due to fear and unrest.
He revealed that the attack was allegedly carried out by residents of a neighboring community over a long-standing land dispute. The assailants reportedly targeted individuals involved in ongoing civil litigation concerning the contested land.
“The burning, looting, and destruction of properties appear to have been calculated and systematically executed,” the statement read.
The police spokesperson said that following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Johnson O. Adenola, swiftly deployed tactical and intelligence teams, including a unit of Police Mobile Force (PMF) operatives, to the affected area to restore order.
“This prompt response brought about a restoration of normalcy, allowing villagers to return to their homes and resume daily activities without fear of harassment or intimidation,” Osifeso said.
He disclosed that among those arrested is 33-year-old Salawudeen Ismaila, a native of the neighboring Oko community, alongside eight others.
Three unregistered Boxer motorcycles were also recovered from the suspects.
Osifeso stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other individuals identified as being involved in the attack. The arrested suspects will soon be arraigned in court.
Reaffirming its commitment to law and order, the Oyo State Police Command emphasized its zero-tolerance stance against acts of brigandage and warned against individuals or groups taking the law into their own hands.
“The Command also frowns at any act of self-help in ventilating grievances and assures law-abiding residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property through robust and sustained security measures,” the statement concluded.
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate