Gunmen on Saturday attacked a police checkpoint at Ipele Junction in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, leaving two police officers and a female civilian injured. The incident has again raised concerns about public safety and the security situation in parts of the state.
The attack happened when police officers attached to the Safer Highway Patrol were on routine duty at the checkpoint. The Safer Highway Patrol is a special police unit set up to protect major roads, prevent armed robbery, and ensure the safety of road users across the country.
According to police sources, the attackers were about three in number and arrived at the checkpoint on a motorcycle. Witnesses said the gunmen suddenly opened fire on the officers without warning, causing panic in the area. Motorists and pedestrians nearby reportedly ran for cover as gunshots rang out.
During the attack, two police officers were hit by bullets. A woman identified simply as Taiwo was also injured by stray bullets while passing through the area. The identities of the injured officers were not immediately disclosed by the police.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Kazeem, said the officers were attacked while carrying out their lawful duties. He said the police team did not retreat but responded quickly to the attack.
“The operatives engaged the gunmen in a gun duel, which forced the attackers to flee from the scene,” Kazeem said in a statement issued on Saturday.
He added that all the injured victims were immediately taken to the hospital for treatment. According to him, they are currently receiving medical care, and their condition is being monitored.
In a major breakthrough, the police spokesperson disclosed that one of the suspects was arrested at the scene. The suspect was identified as Nwabali. The motorcycle used by the attackers was also recovered by the police.
Kazeem explained that the arrested suspect is now in police custody and has been providing useful information to assist ongoing investigations. He said efforts are being intensified to track down and arrest the remaining suspects who escaped during the attack.
“The suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigations are completed,” the police spokesperson said.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, condemned the attack, describing it as “tragic and condemnable.” He praised the Safer Highway Patrol officers for their courage and quick response, saying their actions helped prevent a worse outcome.
“The officers showed bravery in the face of danger. Their prompt action ensured that the attackers did not cause more harm or loss of life,” Lawal said.
The attack has sparked fear among residents of Owo and nearby communities. Some residents said they were worried about the increasing boldness of criminal elements, especially attacks on security personnel.
A trader at Ipele Junction, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the area is usually busy, especially on weekends. “We heard gunshots and everyone started running. It was very scary. This place is always full of people, so it could have been worse,” she said.
Another resident said the attack shows that criminals are becoming more daring. “When criminals can attack police officers openly, it means we all need to be careful,” he said.
Owo Local Government Area has in the past experienced security challenges, including armed robbery and violent attacks. The town gained national attention in June 2022 after a deadly attack on a Catholic church, which left many worshippers dead. Since then, security agencies have increased patrols and checkpoints in the area to prevent further violence.
Ondo State, like many parts of Nigeria, has faced rising insecurity in recent years. Armed robbery, kidnapping, and attacks on security personnel have been reported in different parts of the state. Major highways and rural roads have also been hotspots for criminal activities, leading to the creation of special patrol units like the Safer Highway Patrol.
The Safer Highway Patrol is designed to ensure free movement of people and goods by reducing crime on major roads. Officers are often stationed at strategic points, including checkpoints, to monitor activities and respond quickly to threats.
Following Saturday’s incident, residents have called on the government to strengthen security in the area. Some urged the police to increase patrols, while others called for better equipment and intelligence gathering.
A community leader in Owo said cooperation between residents and security agencies is key to tackling insecurity. “The police cannot do it alone. People must report suspicious movements and support the security agencies,” he said.
The Ondo State Police Command has assured residents that the situation is under control. DSP Kazeem said additional security measures have been put in place to prevent further attacks and to reassure the public.
He urged residents to remain calm and go about their lawful activities without fear. He also advised members of the public to provide useful information that could help the police arrest the remaining suspects.
The police command also warned criminal elements to stay away from the state, saying that Ondo State is not a safe place for criminals. According to the police, anyone found attacking security personnel or innocent citizens will face the full weight of the law.
