Tension gripped residents of Oke Ijebu in Akure South Local Government Area on Saturday. This followed a brazen midnight attack by armed robbers who invaded a local health centre.

The suspects abducted staff and fled with various valuables. This incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. when three armed men scaled the facility’s perimeter fence to gain entry.

These individuals allegedly carried a pump-action rifle and sharp cutlasses. Consequently, they targeted personnel on duty and dispossessed them of several personal belongings.

Items stolen included mobile phones and a Point of Sale (POS) terminal. DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed these details during a press briefing.

“At about 2:00 a.m., three suspects, allegedly armed with a pump-action rifle and cutlasses, invaded a health centre located in Oke Ijebu,” Jimoh stated.

“They forcefully dispossessed three persons on duty of their personal belongings and subsequently whisked them away,” the police spokesperson added.

Tactical Rescue Operations Near Olokuta Axis

Police sources revealed that the attackers arrived in an unregistered black Toyota Venza. This vehicle was strategically parked along the main road before the operation began.

The gunmen drove the abducted staff towards the Olokuta axis along Ondo Road. According to ThisDay, the victims were subjected to further humiliation during the journey.

“Preliminary investigation shows that the suspects ordered the victims to remove their clothing and later abandoned them in the bush before fleeing,” Jimoh explained.

“The victims later found refuge with the nearby staff of the Nigerian Correctional Service,” he continued while describing the harrowing escape of the medical workers.

Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal has since visited the scene. He ordered a full-scale, intelligence-driven investigation to track the suspects involved in the raid.

“The Commissioner of Police has directed the deployment of tactical and surveillance teams to track down the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice,” the command noted.

Amotekun Intervenes Amidst Rising Insecurity Fears

The Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun, stated it was responsible for the rescue. This occurred shortly after the victims were abandoned in the bush.

Adetunji Adeleye, the Corps Commander, confirmed the development. He also disclosed the rescue of a 45-year-old man and his son abducted at Pelebe on Friday night.

“The command condemns this act in strong terms and reassures residents that adequate security measures have been put in place,” the police authorities insisted.

Furthermore, patrols have been intensified across the Akure South LGA. The police are now working with local vigilante groups to strengthen community-level intelligence gathering.

“Patrols have been intensified, and collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilante groups has been strengthened,” the police statement maintained.

Adeleye assured residents that the safety of lives and property remains a top priority. Meanwhile, he urged the public to provide timely information to help catch the gang.

The state government continues to emphasize the need for collective efforts to enhance safety. Consequently, residents are on high alert as security forces hunt the Toyota Venza.