The Oyo State Police Command has launched a full-scale manhunt for armed hoodlums who invaded a Nigeria Immigration Service Passport Office in Ogbomoso, attacked officers on duty and escaped with a rifle, ammunition and other valuables.
The shocking incident, which occurred on Tuesday night, has raised fresh concerns about security around government facilities in the state.
According to reports, the attackers stormed the Immigration office located along the Ogbomoso–Ilorin Expressway, near the NNPC filling station, while business activities were still ongoing in the nearby Ayanyan Cattle Market.
Sources revealed that the assailants gained access to the facility by scaling the perimeter fence from the rear before launching an attack on officers on duty.
During the operation, the hoodlums reportedly overpowered two Immigration officers, assaulting them with sticks and other dangerous weapons before making away with a G3 rifle, ammunition and several other items.
The attackers were also said to have stolen a mobile phone belonging to one of the officers, a generating set and a motorcycle battery before fleeing through the same route they used to enter the premises.
Confirming the incident, the Oyo State Police Command disclosed that immediate reinforcements were deployed after the alarm was raised by officials at the facility.
According to Police spokesperson CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, preliminary investigations indicate that about five armed men carried out the operation.
He explained that surveillance teams, tactical units and operatives from the Command Monitoring Unit were immediately mobilised to the scene following the distress call.
The police further disclosed that the injured officers have received medical treatment and are currently in stable condition.
As part of efforts to track down the suspects, security operatives have intensified search operations around Ogbomoso, including combing nearby bushes and suspected escape routes.
The command also revealed that intelligence networks and informants have been activated to gather information capable of leading to the arrest of the attackers and the recovery of the stolen firearm.
Authorities say all available investigative and operational resources are being deployed to ensure a breakthrough in the case.
In a bid to strengthen the operation, the Oyo State Police Command and the Nigeria Immigration Service have established a joint task team to coordinate efforts and improve information sharing.
Commissioner of Police Olugbemiga Abimbola has reportedly directed all intelligence and operational units to prioritise the case and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The police reassured residents of Ogbomoso and surrounding communities that security agencies remain committed to protecting lives and property and preventing criminal elements from operating freely within the state.
Residents have also been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.
The incident comes at a time when concerns over security challenges continue to dominate public discussions across Oyo State and other parts of the country.
