The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the death of five people, including a soldier, following an attack in Magbon Etido, Mowé, in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta on Monday, the command’s spokesperson, Oluseyi Babaseyi, described the incident as “an isolated criminal attack and not a bandit operation as being speculated in some quarters.”
“Regrettably, a soldier on security duty lost his life during the incident, while another sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment,” the statement read.
Babaseyi disclosed that four persons were abducted during the attack, prompting security operatives to launch a coordinated search-and-rescue operation involving the police, military and other security agencies.
“Attackers abducted four persons during the incident. Police operatives, in collaboration with the Military and other security stakeholders, immediately launched coordinated search-and-rescue operations. One of the abducted victims was rescued, while the remains of the other three victims were later recovered.
“During the bush-combing exercise, a local hunter supporting the operation lost his life in an encounter with the fleeing criminals. The Command extends its condolences to his family,” he said.
PRESS RELEASE
OGUN POLICE DISPEL BANDITRY CLAIMS OVER MOWE INCIDENT
The Ogun State Police Command wishes to clarify that the security incident recorded at a private dredging site in Magbon Etido, Mowe, was an isolated criminal attack and not a bandit operation as being… pic.twitter.com/vhWKsxFlta
— Ogun State Police Command (@OgunPoliceNG) June 8, 2026
According to the police spokesperson, sustained pressure from the joint security team led to the neutralisation of one of the suspects, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.
“Following the report, Police operatives, in collaboration with the Military, swiftly mobilised to the area and commenced coordinated operations to apprehend those responsible,” Babaseyi said.
He added that preliminary investigations had not established any link between the attack and banditry.
“Preliminary findings do not indicate any connection between the incident and banditry activities. Investigations and tactical operations remain ongoing.
“The Command assures residents that the situation is under control, security presence has been reinforced, and there is no cause for alarm.”
