At least five personnel of the National Park Service have been killed after gunmen attacked the Service’s office in Oloka, Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
According to The PUNCH, the attack took place around 9pm on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, when armed men suspected to be bandits stormed the National Park Service facility, which is located close to a forest reserve.
Security sources and residents said the attackers engaged officers on duty in a gun battle before fleeing into the surrounding forest. As of the time of filing this report, efforts were still ongoing to recover the bodies of the slain officers, which were believed to be within the forest where the attackers retreated.
The incident caused panic in Oloka and neighbouring communities, with residents fleeing their homes over fears of further attacks. Witnesses said heavy gunfire was heard for several minutes, suggesting that the assailants were well-armed and coordinated.
Confirming the attack, the Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the police had received reports of the incident and that security agencies had been deployed to the area.
“Yes, there was an attack by yet-to-be-identified men against the men of the National Park Service,” Ayanlade said.
He added that top security officials were already moving to the scene.
“The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, CP Femi Haruna, and other service chiefs are currently on their way to the location. Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police has deployed tactical teams, Mobile Police Force officers of the Nigeria Police Force and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit to the affected area to prevent further breakdown of law and order,” he said.
An eyewitness in Orire Local Government Area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said five officers were affected during the attack.
“Five officers were attacked during the incident. Four were confirmed dead, while one who sustained serious injuries is currently receiving treatment,” the source said.
According to the police, security operatives have begun a coordinated operation to secure the area, restore calm and track down those responsible for the attack.
The National Park Service office in Oloka is located near a vast forest area, which security agencies have in recent years identified as a possible hideout for criminal elements, including bandits and kidnappers.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movement, as security patrols have been intensified across Orire Local Government Area and surrounding communities.
