Several Injured as Gunmen Attack Sunday Igboho’s Security Team

 

By Abdulahi Musa 

Several operatives of the Iru Ekun security outfit, a private security network linked to Yoruba Nation agitator Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, were reportedly injured after suspected bandits attacked the team during a security operation inside the Old Oyo National Park.

The operatives had reportedly entered the forest as part of an operation aimed at locating and dislodging suspected kidnappers and other armed criminals believed to be using the area as a hideout.

According to reports, the team relied on drone surveillance to gather intelligence and identify suspected criminal camps before moving into the forest. The operation, however, turned violent when the security personnel came under heavy gunfire from armed men believed to be members of cross-border criminal gangs.

A gun battle ensued, leaving several members of the security team with injuries. Authorities have yet to disclose the exact number of those wounded.

Reacting to the incident, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde said preliminary findings by security agencies suggested that the attackers were suspected cross-border bandits. He added that investigations were ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

The incident has renewed concerns over the persistent security threats posed by armed groups operating within forest reserves and remote communities across the South-West.

The operation formed part of ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes around the Old Oyo National Park, an area that has witnessed repeated security incidents in recent years.

Residents of neighbouring communities have called for stronger cooperation between security agencies and local vigilante groups to improve surveillance and strengthen security across the area.

Security experts also note that the use of drones during the operation reflects the growing adoption of intelligence-driven tactics in combating criminal activities in difficult terrains, where conventional policing often faces significant challenges.