In a harrowing incident at the Abbey Hostel in Ode Remo, chaos ensued early Thursday morning as armed robbers clashed with operatives from the Ogun State Police Command. The hostel, housing students from the Gateway ICT Polytechnic Saapade, became the scene of a gun battle that resulted in the death of one unidentified suspect.
The terrifying episode unfolded around 1:30 am when four armed robbers reportedly invaded the area, targeting the hostel for a robbery spree. Sources revealed that the assailants forcefully deprived students of their mobile phones and electronic devices during the operation.
Amid the robbery, a quick-thinking resident alerted the police to the unfolding danger, prompting the dispatch of an anti-crime patrol team to intervene and protect the students. As the police approached, the robbers engaged them in a fierce shootout.
In the exchange of gunfire, one of the suspects lost his life, while the remaining three managed to flee the scene with bullet wounds. Confirming the incident, Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, disclosed that efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The police recovered a bag from the neutralized suspect containing five iPhones, one Techno phone, a wristwatch, an iPod, and a power bank. The injured suspects who escaped the scene are now the subject of an intense manhunt by law enforcement.
The Gateway ICT Polytechnic Saapade and its associated hostels have unfortunately become targets for criminal activities, with a notable incident in December 2023 resulting in the tragic death of a student named Segun. The recent surge in criminal activities in the area underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures to safeguard the lives and belongings of students. Authorities are expected to heighten security efforts in response to these alarming developments. Stay tuned for further updates as the investigation unfolds.