The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the identities of two civilians killed during a shooting in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area, on Monday, following a reported clash linked to control of a motor park.
The deceased were identified as 49-year-old Nurení Sobowale, from Odeda Area of Abeokuta, and 43-year-old Saheed Akinrole of Adeagbo Compound, Ikire.
According to the police, the violence escalated after assailants reportedly seized a rifle, which was later used to unleash gunfire in the area.
“It was later abandoned and subsequently recovered with multiple bullet holes and a destroyed windscreen,” the statement said.
The command said nine spent ammunition shells were retrieved at the scene and secured for forensic examination. Two police officers were also seriously injured during the incident.
“The remains of the two civilians were deposited at Oluyoro Catholic Mortuary and their families had been informed.
“The injured officers were initially treated at a nearby hospital before being referred to the University College Hospital, Ibadan, for further medical attention.
“The newly deployed Osun Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, has visited the scene and directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to lead a comprehensive investigation.”
The police said tactical and intelligence personnel have been deployed to the affected area as efforts intensify to establish the circumstances surrounding the violence and apprehend those responsible.
Residents have also been urged to provide any information that could assist investigators by reporting to the nearest police station.
The command appealed for calm and vigilance among residents, assuring them that security measures were being strengthened to restore normalcy along the affected axis.
The incident reportedly followed a dispute over control of a motor park around Naira and Kobo Junction in Ikire, where rival groups were said to have engaged in a confrontation before the shooting occurred.
Leave feedback about this