Fear gripped Ipele-Owo community in Ondo State on Wednesday night as suspected bandits attacked and set ablaze a police station, forcing residents and officers to flee for safety on the eve of crossover church services.
The attack occurred around 10 p.m. in Ipele, Owo Local Government Area, while many residents were preparing to attend church. Witnesses said the assailants arrived in large numbers, firing gunshots and causing chaos across the community.
An eyewitness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the attackers operated in a coordinated manner.
“It was a terrorist attack. The attackers, numbering about 20, came into Ipele community in a commando style and began to shoot sporadically before attacking the Police Divisional Station,” the source said.
The witness added that the situation forced many residents to abandon their homes and run into nearby bushes.
“It was a serious incident because many of us had to flee into the bush. The sounds from the attack were terrifying, and none of us could withstand it,” the eyewitness added.
It was gathered that the police station was eventually set on fire by the attackers before they fled the area.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Jimoh Abayomi, said the attack occurred but noted that full details were still being compiled.
“Yes, it happened, but we will get the details out tomorrow,” he said.
Meanwhile, security operatives were reportedly deployed to the community to restore calm and prevent further violence.