Police in Oyo State have averted a planned night-time assault on Elebe Village, Aleniboro, near Irawo Mine in Atisbo Local Government Area, killing two suspected bandits and dispersing the rest of the gang.

According to the state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, the operation was triggered by a tip-off from a resident who reported that about 10 armed men, identified as Fulani bandits, had taken cover in a farm settlement around Elebe Village. The group was allegedly waiting for nightfall to launch an attack on the community.

Ayanlade said the suspects were reportedly armed with AK-47 rifles, single-barrel guns and cut-to-size locally made pistols, and were overheard openly discussing plans to unleash violence on villagers.

Once the information reached the Tede Divisional Police Officer, the chain of command was activated and the state Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, ordered the deployment of additional tactical assets to the area.

Police operatives, working alongside Agbekoya and local hunters familiar with the terrain, moved swiftly to the hideout. On sighting the advancing team, the bandits allegedly opened fire, prompting a gun battle in the surrounding bush. Two suspects were shot dead, while others fled with suspected bullet wounds.

A follow-up search of the area led to the recovery of a cut-to-size locally made pistol, live and expended cartridges, spent 7.62mm AK-47 shells, quantities of substances believed to be Indian hemp, two basic mobile phones and a bottle containing a suspected illicit mixed drink.

The police spokesperson said the area has since been secured, with intensified bush combing and surveillance operations under way to track down the fleeing suspects and prevent any renewed threat to Elebe and neighbouring communities.

Ayanlade stressed that the operation reflected the command’s emphasis on intelligence-led policing, rapid response and collaboration with local security networks. He urged residents to remain vigilant and to provide timely information on suspicious movements or gatherings.

The command appealed for sustained cooperation from the public, noting that community intelligence remains central to efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State.