On Tuesday night, an office of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, became the target of an armed assault. Suspected gunmen, reportedly numbering about five, launched the attack, which caused panic among local residents and highlighted concerns over the growing wave of insecurity targeting public institutions across the country.

The incident reportedly unfolded around 10 p.m., although an alarm was raised by the officer-in-charge of the passport office at approximately 8:45 p.m. after the assailants had already gained access. Preliminary investigations by the Oyo State Police Command revealed that the attackers gained entry by scaling the perimeter fence from the rear of the compound, which bordered a large expanse of bushland.

Upon gaining access, the hoodlums overpowered and assaulted two immigration officers who were on night duty. The officers were reportedly attacked with sticks and other dangerous weapons. The assailants then proceeded to cart away a G3 rifle, along with its attached ammunition, which was assigned to the office. In addition to the firearm, they also stole a mobile phone belonging to one of the officers, a generating set, and a motorcycle battery before making their escape through the same route used to gain access to the facility.

An immigration officer, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the incident to Daily Trust, though specific details regarding the number of attackers or casualties were not initially provided. However, the spokesperson for the NIS, DCI Akinsola Akinlabi, later confirmed the attack to SaharaReporters, stating he was awaiting a comprehensive briefing on the incident.

The Oyo State Police Command swiftly launched an investigation into the attack. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Police Public Relations Officer, issued a statement detailing the command's response. Upon receiving the distress call, operatives from its Monitoring Unit and surveillance teams were immediately deployed to the scene for intervention and assessment. The injured officers received medical treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.

In the aftermath, surveillance and tactical teams have intensified operations across the area, including thorough searches of adjoining bushes and suspected escape routes, with the primary objective of apprehending the suspects and recovering the stolen firearm and other items. The police have also activated intelligence assets and informants to generate actionable information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible.

Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, has directed all operational and intelligence units to deploy maximum resources to ensure the prompt apprehension of the perpetrators. Furthermore, a collaborative task team has been jointly constituted by the police commissioner and the state comptroller of the NIS to strengthen coordination and enhance efforts in tracking down all individuals involved in this security breach. The police have reassured residents of Ogbomoso and surrounding communities of their unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to maintain vigilance and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.