Iru Ekun Security Operatives Injured in Ambush During Rescue Mission in Old Oyo Forest

Iru Ekun Security Operatives Injured in Ambush During Rescue Mission in Old Oyo Forest
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‎By Grace Chidimma Ibe
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‎E-ISSN: 2354-4481
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‎Several operatives of the Iru Ekun Security Network, a private security outfit associated with Sunday Igboho, sustained injuries after they were ambushed by suspected cross-border bandits during a rescue operation in the Old Oyo National Park forest reserve on Thursday night.
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‎According to reports, the security team was conducting a tracking and rescue mission aimed at locating suspected bandits and terrorists believed to be responsible for the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
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‎The operatives reportedly deployed surveillance drones to gather intelligence before advancing deeper into the forest. However, heavily armed gunmen launched a surprise attack, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
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‎Several members of the security team were injured during the encounter. Local reports also claim that a prominent member of the Iru Ekun squad was struck by multiple bullets but survived. Some eyewitness accounts circulating on social media attribute the incident to spiritual or traditional protection, although these claims have not been independently verified.
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‎The rescue operation highlights the growing security challenges posed by armed criminal groups operating within forest reserves and border communities in parts of southwestern Nigeria.
‎Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of the time of filing this report.

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