By Azeez Ismail, Osogbo
At least three people were killed on Tuesday when suspected armed hoodlums ambushed operatives of the Osun State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps, in Akinlalu, Ile-Ife axis of the state.
The Osun Amotekun Public Relations Officer, Yusuf Idowu, said the operatives had mobilised to the community on motorcycles after a distress call from residents, but were attacked by armed men who opened fire and stole two service rifles. The gun battle reportedly lasted for more than an hour.
Despite the ambush, Idowu said the operatives overpowered the assailants, with three suspected attackers killed, three others arrested, while several escaped with injuries. A follow-up operation led to the recovery of the stolen firearms, uniforms, and berets allegedly used by the gang for impersonation.
Condemning the attack, the Amotekun Commander, Dr. Isaac Omoyele, vowed that the corps would not be intimidated, stressing that the security outfit remained committed to protecting lives and property in Osun.
“This cowardly ambush will not deter our operatives. We will intensify efforts to root out criminal elements threatening peace in our communities,” Omoyele said.
The Corps also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely information to aid ongoing investigations.