Police Inspector Killed In Bandit Attack At Oyo Border Post

A police inspector has been killed in an ambush by suspected armed bandits at Budo Masalasi Border Post in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The incident occurred on January 24, 2026, at about 1:30p.m., some days after suspected bandits attacked the National Park Service office in Oloka community in the same Oriire Local Government, where they killed five forest rangers. According to witnesses, between 10 and 15 bandits attacked a police patrol team at around 1:30pm, which sparked an exchange of gunshots.

The inspector was shot dead during the attack, and his AK-47 rifle with 30 rounds of ammunition was seized by the bandits. The police command, however,vowed to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

Confirming the incident, the Oyo State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said:”Yes, there was an attack on police operatives during which an Inspector, while courageously repelling the attack, paid the supreme price on the line of duty.”

He added that the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, has ordered a manhunt for the attackers, and preliminary findings suggest some of the bandits were injured during the shootout.

“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to reassure members of the public that adequate security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property.

“Residents are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and report any individuals with gunshot injuries, those seeking medical attention under suspicious circumstances, or persons exhibiting suspicious behaviour to the nearest police station or security agency,” Ayanlade said.