In a distressing incident that unfolded on the Ife/Osu Highway in Osun State, armed robbers launched a violent attack on two vehicles, resulting in the shooting of a driver and the sexual assault of a female passenger. The event, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, has raised serious concerns about safety on this route.
According to a passenger who was on board one of the vehicles, the attack involved a commercial bus traveling from Lagos and a private car. The source, who requested anonymity for security reasons, described the terrifying moment when the vehicles were intercepted by a gang of approximately eight armed robbers.
As the vehicles approached the Osu community, the robbers emerged, brandishing firearms and ordered all passengers to disembark. They proceeded to rob the travellers of their cash and personal belongings, including ATM cards. In a particularly harrowing part of the incident, the bus driver was shot but fortunately survived the attack, sustaining injuries. Meanwhile, a woman in the private vehicle was subjected to a sexual assault by one of the assailants.
The passenger recounted the chaos that ensued, stating, “The robbers attacked two vehicles. A bus and one private car. I was traveling on the bus. We were out of Ife but yet to reach the Osu community when our vehicles were stopped by the robbers. They were about eight in number and they carried guns.”
As the robbery took place, some passengers managed to flee into nearby bushes, seeking refuge from the armed gang. Witnesses reported seeing individuals wandering in the vicinity who alerted security personnel to the ongoing robbery.
Shortly after the robbers fled the scene, law enforcement arrived, including police officers, members of local vigilante groups, and personnel from the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service. They began combing the area for clues and apprehended one of the suspects involved in the robbery.
Emmanuel Giwa-Alade, the acting Police Public Relations Officer for Osun State, confirmed the arrest, stating, “The incident happened. I got a briefing about it not long ago and we were able to apprehend one suspect. He is helping our investigation.” The police continue to investigate the incident to apprehend additional suspects involved in this violent crime.
This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns for travellers on major highways in the region, and it underscores the need for increased security measures to protect citizens from such violent crimes. The community remains on high alert as local authorities work to ensure the safety of all residents and travellers alike.
