Gunmen Strike in Ondo, Killing Mother and Daughter in Brutal Attack
In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers invaded Igushin community, located in the Ala axis of Akure, the capital of Ondo State, on Thursday night. The assailants shot and killed two individuals identified as a mother and her daughter, adding to a growing list of violent attacks in the region.
Details of the Deadly Invasion
According to eyewitness accounts, the gunmen, believed to number around five and fully armed, stormed the community with the apparent intent to abduct residents. They began firing sporadically, creating panic among locals. The deceased woman, who owned a poultry farm in the area, was allegedly shot along with her daughter inside their residence.
A source, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, described the harrowing scene: "The initial thought was that the woman and her daughter had been kidnapped when they arrived at her residence, but it was later that we realised that they had been shot dead. The sudden sound of gunshots alerted everyone that there was trouble. I was discussing with my friend in front of his house, and we immediately scampered for safety. After a few minutes, we heard loud cries, and when we rushed there, the two of them were shot."
Police Response and Ongoing Investigations
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the incident through its spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh. In a statement, Jimoh expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and announced that investigations have commenced to apprehend the perpetrators. He revealed that two victims were successfully rescued during a swift and coordinated operation by security forces.
Jimoh urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and actionable information. He stated, "The Ondo State Police Command strongly condemns the heinous violent incident at Igushin via Ala, Akure, which led to the tragic loss of two innocent lives. While two victims were successfully rescued through a swift and coordinated operation, the command expresses deep sorrow over the unfortunate deaths recorded. The Command assures the people that adequate security measures have been put in place to ensure security of lives and property while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators, and the Command also assures the public that those responsible will be brought to justice."
Background of Rising Insecurity in Ondo State
This attack is part of a disturbing trend of gunmen assaults in Ondo State over recent months. Communities have faced repeated incidents resulting in deaths and abductions, prompting residents to stage protests to draw government attention to their security plight. The latest tragedy underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and community-police collaboration to combat such crimes effectively.
