Suspected Bandits Attacks Sunday Igboho’s Private Security Team in Oyo Forest

According to report by Nigerian Tribune on Friday, June 26, 2026, several operatives of Iru Ekun, a private security outfit linked to Yoruba Nation advocate Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, were reportedly injured after they were ambushed by suspected bandits during a security operation in the Old Oyo National Park.

According to sources familiar with the mission, the operatives had entered the forest to track down suspected kidnappers and other armed criminals believed to be using the vast reserve as a hideout.

Before moving into the area, the team reportedly deployed surveillance drones to identify suspected camps and monitor the movements of the criminals.

The operation, however, took a dangerous turn when the security personnel were allegedly attacked by heavily armed men believed to be part of cross-border criminal groups operating within the forest.

The assailants reportedly opened fire on the advancing operatives, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire deep inside the national park.

Sources disclosed that several members of the Iru Ekun team sustained injuries during the confrontation.

However, the exact number of casualties or the severity of the injuries had not been officially confirmed at the time of reporting.

The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over the increasing activities of kidnappers, bandits, and other armed groups operating in forests and remote communities across the South-West.

Security experts have repeatedly warned that criminal gangs continue to exploit dense forest areas as safe havens for carrying out attacks and evading law enforcement agencies.

As of the time the report was filed, the Oyo State Police Command had not issued an official statement regarding the incident despite efforts to obtain its reaction.

The latest attack underscores the persistent security challenges facing the region and raises fresh questions about the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies and local vigilante groups to curb criminal activities within forest reserves and protect nearby communities.