Ondo State Police Command Confirms Attack on Ipele Divisional Police Headquarters by Gunmen

According to preliminary reports, at about 9:41 p.m., a group of armed men numbering between 20 and 30 invaded the police station, firing assault rifles and deploying dynamite. The attackers set the station ablaze, leading to the destruction of the building and several exhibits. However, no life was lost in the attack as of the time of this report.

Upon receipt of the report, a joint patrol comprising the Police, Military, Civil Defence, and other non-state actors promptly mobilized to the scene; however, the attackers had already carried out the act before their arrival.
Contrary to reports circulating on social media, no church was attacked during the incident.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a tragic and reprehensible act against the peace and security of Ondo State. He urged members of the public to remain calm, assuring them that the situation is firmly under control.

Consequently, the CP has ordered the immediate deployment of additional operational assets, including Tactical Teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal–Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) units, and Police Mobile Force personnel to the area while the situation is under control. A coordinated manhunt for the attackers is currently underway.

Further developments will be communicated in due course.
For any inquiries, please contact:
0906 058 8958
X: @OndoPoliceNg
Instagram: Ondopolicecommand
Facebook: Ondo State Police Command
Email: Ondopolice@gmail.com

E-Signed

DSP ABAYOMI JIMOH
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO)
For: Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command
1st January, 2026.