Panic in Oyo as bandits threaten attack

The Oyo State Police Command has intensified security operations in Ikoyi-Ile, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, following credible intelligence indicating a planned attack by suspected bandits.

This development was confirmed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, in Ibadan, the state capital. According to the statement, a handwritten note allegedly authored by bandits was dropped in front of a residential building in Ikoyi-Ile, threatening an attack on the community on January 20, 2026.

The note, written in both Yoruba and English, reportedly warned residents to “prepare” for an attack that would bring “nothing but tears and pains” to the area.

Reacting swiftly, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Femi Haruna, ordered the immediate activation of the command’s intelligence, tactical and operational units to forestall any breach of peace.

Ayanlade disclosed that the State Intelligence Department, working closely with tactical teams, has commenced intensive debriefing of individuals connected to the discovery of the note. He added that armed patrols, stop-and-search operations, intelligence surveillance and strategic area domination have been significantly reinforced across Ikoyi-Ile and neighbouring communities.

“Police personnel are currently on 24-hour high alert, with sustained ground presence to deny criminal elements any opportunity to operate or exploit the situation,” the spokesperson said, adding that area commanders have been directed to maintain constant supervision and continuous patrol coverage.

The security alert comes amid rising concerns following a recent attack earlier in the week, when suspected bandits reportedly invaded Oloka community in the same local government area and killed five National Park Service officers.

The police assured residents that there is no cause for panic, stressing that robust security measures are already in place to safeguard lives and property. The command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons or movements to the nearest police station or security post.

“The command has launched a thorough and intelligence-driven investigation into the origin, authenticity and intent of the said note,” Ayanlade added, assuring that those responsible would be decisively dealt with in accordance with the law.