Gladness Gideon
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of nine individuals in connection with the brutal killing of a 70-year-old woman, Madam Rachael Bamidele, and the destruction of several properties during a violent land dispute in Aagba, Surulere Local Government Area.
According to a statement released on Thursday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, the tragic incident occurred on April 5, 2025, when armed individuals from a neighboring community allegedly launched a coordinated attack on Aagba.
The violence, which stemmed from a protracted land dispute between communities, led to the death of Madam Bamidele and the razing of nine residential buildings.
Eyewitnesses reported looting and arson during the assault, with many residents forced to flee in fear for their lives.
SP Osifeso disclosed that the attack appeared targeted, as many victims were parties to an ongoing legal battle concerning the ownership of the disputed land.
In swift response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Johnson Adenola, deployed a combined team of intelligence operatives and tactical units, including personnel from the Police Mobile Force, to restore law and order in the area. Their intervention enabled displaced residents to return to their homes under police protection.
One of the suspects arrested is 33-year-old Salawudeen Ismaila, a resident of Oko community. During the investigation, law enforcement officers also recovered three unregistered Boxer motorcycles believed to have been used in the operation.
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The Command stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects who remain at large.
Reiterating the Command’s firm stance against violence, SP Osifeso assured the public of continued security and justice.
“The Command remains committed to protecting lives and property through lawful and proactive policing,” he stated.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement as investigations continue.