The Oyo State Police Command has launched an investigation into an alleged handwritten threat note reportedly dropped in front of a residential building in Ikoyi-Ile, Orire Local Government Area, warning of a possible attack on the community.
The note, written in both Yoruba and English, is suspected to have been authored by bandits. Police authorities said the development prompted an immediate security response to prevent any breach of peace.
According to the Command, the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, ordered the activation of the Command’s intelligence, tactical and operational mechanisms upon receiving the report.
“The Commissioner of Police immediately activated the Command’s intelligence, tactical, and operational response architecture,” the police said in a statement on Friday.
The State Intelligence Department (SID), working in conjunction with tactical units, has initiated an intensive debriefing of individuals connected to the discovery of the note. At the same time, operational assets have been deployed and repositioned within Ikoyi-Ile and its surrounding communities.
As part of heightened security measures, the police said armed patrols, stop-and-search operations, intelligence surveillance and strategic area domination have been significantly reinforced across the area.
“Police personnel are currently on 24-hour high alert, with sustained ground presence to deny criminal elements any opportunity to operate or exploit the situation,” the Command stated, adding that the Area Command has been directed to maintain constant supervision and continuous patrol coverage.
The police further disclosed that an intelligence-driven investigation is ongoing to determine the origin, authenticity and intent of the note.
“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that every lead is being pursued, and no effort will be spared in uncovering the truth behind this threat,” the statement said. “Any individuals or groups found responsible will be decisively dealt with in accordance with the law.”
Reassuring residents, the Command said there was no cause for panic, stressing that adequate security measures had been put in place to protect lives and property.
“Robust security measures have been fully activated and are already in place to safeguard lives and property,” the police said. “Residents will continue to observe increased police visibility and patrol presence aimed at guaranteeing peace and public safety.”
The Oyo State Police Command also noted that it is working closely with other security agencies and community security stakeholders to maintain a coordinated and proactive security posture across the state.
Residents were urged to continue their lawful activities while remaining vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious persons or movements to the nearest police station or through designated emergency channels.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains resolute in its mandate and assures the public that criminal threats of any nature will not be allowed to thrive in Oyo State,” the statement added.
Emergency contacts provided by the police include the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line 615, and the Command Control Room on 08081768614 and 07055495413.
