Suspected terrorists have reportedly set ablaze the Divisional Police Station in Ipele, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, throwing the community into panic.
The attack, which occurred late on Tuesday night, was said to have been carried out by armed men numbering about 20. There were also reports that a church in the community was attacked during the incident.
A local source told Vanguard that the assailants stormed Ipele at about 10 p.m., shooting sporadically and forcing residents to flee to neighbouring communities and nearby bushes for safety.
According to the source, the attackers specifically targeted the police facility in the area, which they eventually set ablaze.
“They came in a commando style and operated for several hours before fleeing the scene. Security personnel who rushed to the area were overwhelmed by the intensity of the attack, which gave the assailants free rein,” the source said.
Another resident described the incident as a terrorist attack, saying the gunmen invaded the community and immediately began firing indiscriminately before heading for the Divisional Police Station.
“It was a serious incident because many of us had to flee into the bush. The sounds of gunshots were terrifying and none of us could withstand it,” the resident said.
A chief in the community also confirmed the attack, describing it as terrifying and noting that many residents escaped into nearby bushes to avoid being killed.
As at press time, the motive for the attack had yet to be ascertained, while several residents were still said to be displaced from the community.
Vanguard gathered that top security chiefs in the state have ordered the immediate deployment of security personnel to the area to restore normalcy.
When contacted, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Abayomi, confirmed the attack but said details were still sketchy.
Abayomi assured that the command would provide more information as investigations continue.
