Osun bank robbery attacks: Policemen remove uniform, flee for life as robbers operate

By Richard Akintade, Osogbo

Some policemen at Iree in Boripe Local Government area of Osun State Thursday allegedly changed to mufti and fled the bank robbery scene.

The policemen were seen removing their uniform as they escaped through the jungle.

While identity of the officers are yet to be confirmed, an eyewitness revealed that they were part of those who escaped being killed by the robbers.

Our correspondent gathered that the robbers had first stormed a Divisional Police station beside the banks to disperse those on duty before they attacked the branches of Access Bank and United Bank for Africa along Ikirun Road.

Authentic source revealed that a policeman who was a constabulary attached to the station was killed during confrontation with the criminals.

It was also learnt the men of the underworld used explosives to break the doors of the banks and operated for about 20 minutes before they fled in four vehicles through Iree/Ada Road.

A student of the Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, simply identified as Olaide, said the robbers got to the banks around 4pm and operated for about 20 minutes.

She said the robbers escaped through Iree/Ada Road by shooting into the air, adding that a man was shot dead.

“They arrived some minutes to 4pm and operated for about 20 minutes before they left. They came to the area in three vehicles, but while fleeing, they snatched a vehicle at a nearby car wash. A woman was among the gang of robbers and they were more than 15,” Olaide stated.

The police spokesperson in the state, Yemisi Opalola, confirmed the incident, saying, “Our tactical teams have been deployed in the area.”

Police personnel, members of the Hunters Group of Nigeria, Oodua Peoples’ Congress, OPC and other non-conventional security groups were said to be on the trail of the robbers.

Angry residents of Iree stormed the Divisional Police Station in protest after the robbers had left.

Meanwhile, residents of the community have called on Governor Gboyega Oyetola of the state to engage the local security outfit in combatting criminal activities in the state as the way out to the incessant armed robbery attacks in the state.

Speaking with The Conclave on behalf of the residents, Chief Adeniyi Odetola, Elder Boluwaduro Michael and Madam Adeola Aiyeolopin said the APC led government in the state should wake up from slumber before it is too late.

“Government should involves these local and traditional security outfits for them to collaborate with the Police in attacking criminal activities.

“Governor Gboyega Oyetola is trying towards protection of lives and property in the state but Baba should expedite more action as people are living in fear,” the residents lamented.