THE Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that five people, including a soldier, lost their lives during an attack at Magbon Etido in Mowe, located within Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued today, the command’s spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, described the incident as an isolated criminal attack, stressing that it was not linked to banditry as suggested in some reports.
According to the police, one soldier deployed to the area was killed during the attack, while another sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Babaseyi explained that four individuals were abducted by the attackers.
Following the incident, security operatives, working alongside military personnel and other stakeholders, launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation. One of the victims was rescued alive, while the bodies of the remaining three abductees were later recovered.
The police spokesperson also disclosed that a local hunter who joined the search operation lost his life during a confrontation with the fleeing suspects. He extended condolences to the hunter’s family.
Authorities said continued pressure from the joint security team led to the neutralisation of one suspect, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the criminal group.
The command noted that police officers and military personnel responded swiftly after receiving reports of the attack and immediately commenced operations in the area.
Preliminary investigations, according to the police, have not established any connection between the incident and bandit activities.
Security agencies have, however, continued their investigations and tactical operations to bring all those responsible to justice.
The Ogun State Police Command assured residents urging them to remain calm as the situation remains under control, adding that security presence has been strengthened in the affected area.
