Security forces are intensifying efforts to track down armed suspects who attacked the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Passport Office in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, assaulting officers and making off with service firearms. The incident occurred on June 2, 2026, around 8:45 pm at the facility located along the busy Ogbomoso–Ilorin Expressway, near an NNPC filling station and close to the Ayanyan Cattle Market.
Details of the Attack
According to the Oyo State Police Command, the assailants invaded the facility, assaulted immigration officers, and escaped with a rifle and ammunition assigned to the office. In addition, they stole other items including a mobile phone, a generator, and a motorcycle battery before fleeing into the surrounding dark bushes. The attack took place while commercial activities were still ongoing at the nearby market, allowing the perpetrators to blend into the evening rush.
The officer in charge of the passport office managed to raise an alarm during the invasion, prompting a swift response from state security forces. Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olushola, confirmed the attack in an official statement released on Wednesday in Ibadan. He stated, 'Upon receipt of the distress report, immediate reinforcement comprising operatives of the Command Monitoring Unit and surveillance teams was deployed to the scene for intervention and assessment of the situation.'
Investigation and Manhunt
The police command has not yet disclosed the exact number or types of firearms stolen. However, teams of detectives are currently tracking the suspects based on initial leads collected from the scene. The Oyo State Police Command has urged residents of Ogbomoso and neighboring communities to remain calm and vigilant. Authorities are asking the public to report any individuals spotted with suspicious injuries or anyone seeking medical treatment for wounds that appear to be from a physical altercation or confrontation.
Context of Rising Insecurity
This incident comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of Oyo State, particularly in the Ogbomoso axis. In recent weeks, communities in Oriire Local Government Area within the same region have witnessed attacks and kidnappings involving students, teachers, and residents. Those incidents prompted calls from traditional rulers and community leaders for stronger security measures and the establishment of additional military formations in the area. The theft of firearms from a government security facility has further alarmed residents, who fear the weapons could be used in future criminal activities if not recovered quickly.
The Oyo State Police Command stated that further updates would be provided as the investigation continues and efforts to recover the stolen firearms intensify. The command is expanding its investigation into the recent facility breach and security threats in the region.
