Amanze Chinonye
Residents of Ikoyi-Ile town in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have been thrown into fear following an alleged threat by suspected bandits to attack the community later this month, Prime Business Africa reports.
The threat, according to local accounts, was conveyed through two handwritten notes allegedly dropped by the assailants. The notes, written in both Yoruba and English, reportedly warned residents of an impending attack scheduled for Tuesday, January 20.
Bandits’ threat letter
Ikoyi-Ile is located in the same local government area where five people were killed earlier this week after gunmen suspected to be bandits opened fire at the Old Oyo National Park in Oloka village on Tuesday, heightening anxiety across neighbouring communities.
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Confirming the development, the Oyo State Police Command said it had received credible information about the alleged threat note and had immediately taken action to forestall any attack.
In a press release issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, ordered the activation of the Command’s intelligence, tactical and operational structures upon learning of the note.
According to the police, the State Intelligence Department, working with tactical units, has commenced intensive investigations to determine the origin, authenticity and intent of the note. Persons connected to the discovery of the message are also being debriefed.
The Command said armed patrols, stop-and-search operations, intelligence surveillance and area domination have been significantly reinforced in Ikoyi-Ile and surrounding communities, with officers placed on 24-hour high alert.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to strongly reassure the good people of Ikoyi-Ile and residents across Oyo State that there is no cause for panic,” the statement said, adding that robust security measures have been put in place to protect lives and property.
Police authorities also disclosed that they are working closely with other security agencies and community stakeholders to maintain a proactive security posture across the state.
Residents were urged to continue with their lawful activities while remaining vigilant and promptly reporting any suspicious persons or movements to the nearest police station or through designated emergency lines, Prime Business Africa reports.
The Command reiterated its resolve to ensure that criminal threats do not gain ground in Oyo State and assured that anyone found responsible for the alleged threat would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
