The Osun State Security Network, known as Amotekun Corps, has confirmed that three people died on Tuesday during a clash between its operatives and suspected hoodlums in Akinlalu, Ife North Local Government Area.
Amotekun spokesperson, Idowu Yusuf, in a statement in Osogbo, said the operatives were first ambushed by armed men while responding to a distress call from residents who reported attacks on farmlands. He said two rifles were taken from the officers during the sudden attack.
“While heading to Akinlalu, our men were ambushed by armed assailants, suspected to be the same group terrorising the community. During the incident, two service rifles were forcefully taken,” Yusuf explained.
He added that when a backup team was deployed to the town, they met another ambush at Akinlalu junction. “The road was blocked, and the assailants opened fire, leading to a gun battle that lasted over an hour. In the aftermath, three lives were confirmed lost, including individuals believed to be among the attackers. Three suspects were arrested, while others sustained injuries and escaped,” he said.
The Corps said the stolen firearms, as well as security uniforms and berets, were later recovered from the hideout of the attackers.
Osun Amotekun Corps Commander, Brig. Gen. Isaac Omoyele (retd.), condemned the ambush and vowed that the security outfit would not be deterred. “This cowardly ambush will not stop our men from carrying out their duties. The safety and security of our people remain our top priority, and we will continue to intensify efforts to rid communities of criminal elements,” he said.
This is the second ambush on Amotekun operatives in Osun this year. On May 1, 2025, operative Lamidi Abiodun was killed in an attack by suspected hoodlums at Papa village in Iwo. According to Yusuf, Abiodun and his team, alongside Vigilante Group members, had gone to rescue farmers when they were ambushed by a gang allegedly led by a criminal identified as Akeem Olofa.
Yusuf said Abiodun died instantly after being struck on the head with a machete, despite surviving initial gunfire during the assault.
The Corps said it remains on alert to prevent further attacks on residents and security personnel in the state.
