Two operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as the Amotekun Corps, have been confirmed dead after an ambush by suspected criminals in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The corps initially described the incident as an attack on officers leaving their operational base around the Ago-Oyinbo farming area in Ala Daadaa. However, the agency said only two of its personnel died, despite early reports that four officers were killed.

The spokesperson of the corps, Jimoh Adeniken, said the officers came under sudden fire while leaving their base after a routine operation.

According to him, the attackers engaged the operatives in a fierce gun battle before escaping.

“Despite the bravery and resistance put up by the officers, one sustained fatal injuries and two unfortunately lost their lives,” Adeniken said. “They paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.”

Adeniken said reinforcements were quickly deployed to the area to search for the attackers and restore calm.

He added that patrols, security operations and intelligence gathering had also been stepped up in the affected communities to prevent another attack and reassure residents.

Amotekun is Ondo State’s security network set up to support local safety operations and help protect lives and property alongside other security agencies.

According to another online media, Vanguard, the corps said the officers were ambushed by suspected criminals while leaving their base in the Ago-Oyinbo farming area around Ala Daadaa.

Corps Mourns Fallen Officers

Adeniken said the Ondo State Governor, the Corps Commander and the management of the agency had commiserated with the families, colleagues and loved ones of the dead officers.

He said the agency recognised their service and sacrifice in protecting communities across the state.

“We salute their courage, sacrifice and commitment to the protection of the people of Ondo State,” the statement read.

The families of the deceased also thanked the Ondo State Government and the Amotekun leadership for giving the late officers a befitting burial.

They asked the government to consider their relatives for future recruitment into the corps.

The corps said it would not be discouraged by the attack.

Adeniken said Amotekun would continue to work with other security agencies to track down the killers and protect residents.

“In conjunction with other security agencies, we will continue to protect lives and property and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” he said.

The corps also called on residents, especially people in farming communities, to stay alert and share useful information with security agencies.

The attack adds to rising security worries in parts of Ondo State, where farming communities have faced repeated threats from armed groups and suspected kidnappers.