Unknown gunmen attack, burn Police Station in Ondo community

Unknown gunmen have attacked and set ablaze the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ipele, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, barely hours before the New Year celebrations on December 31, 2025.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the assailants, estimated to be between 20 and 30, arrived at the facility heavily armed with assault rifles and explosives.

The attackers reportedly fired sporadically, overpowered officers on duty, detonated explosive devices within the premises, and eventually set the station on fire.

Several police vehicles and official exhibits were destroyed in the attack.

Although no casualties were recorded among police personnel or civilians, the incident sparked widespread panic in the community.

Residents reportedly fled into nearby bushes, while many abandoned crossover church services for fear of further violence.

The Ondo State Police Command has condemned the attack, describing it as a “reprehensible act” aimed at undermining public safety. The command also dismissed claims circulating on social media that churches or religious centres were targeted during the incident, clarifying that no place of worship was attacked.

In response, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, ordered the immediate deployment of tactical units and additional security reinforcements to the affected area to prevent a recurrence and restore calm.

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 17 visited the scene on January 1, 2026, to assess the extent of damage and reassure residents of the Police Force’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

Police authorities confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrators and unravel the motive behind the attack.

The incident is the second reported security breach in Owo Local Government Area in recent times, raising fresh concerns over security in the axis.

Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information that could aid investigations.

Very Nigerian.

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