5 Suspected Armed Robbers Killed In Shootout With Police, Hunters In Osogbo

Five robbers were reportedly killed in a police and local hunters joint operation in Osogbo, Osun state capital after their gang attempted to loot a steel rolling mill (now Dangote mill) in the town.

The armed robbery gang were said to have arrived at the facility early hours of Tuesday and sneaked into the compound through a back gate while the hunters were stationed at the front gate.

The local hunters sighted them a few minutes later and engaged them in a shoot-out before requesting back from the police Command.

According to a security source, the gang arrived in more than three vehicles and accessed the facility through the backdoor.

“They were already in the building when security men at the entrance, who were majorly hunters became aware of their presence.

“The hunters later engaged the robbers in a gun battle. While engaging the robbers, the hunters called for police back up and men from Osun command were immediately deployed.

“During the exchange of gunshots, three robbers were shot dead, while 5 others were injured. From observation where I was at the time of the incident, the exchange between the robbers and the security men lasted over 3 hours.

“Police van later came in the morning and evacuated those injured to UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo for treatment. Corpses of those that died were deposited at the morgue of State Specialists Hospital, Asubiaro”, the source added.

Osun police Command spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, who confirmed the incident, added that she cannot confirm the casualties involved.

She, however, noted that police are investigating the incident to arrest fleeing suspects.