The Osun State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has confirmed the death of three persons following an ambush on its operatives in Akinlalu, a community in the Ile-Ife area of the state.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, sparked a fierce gun battle between Amotekun personnel and suspected armed hoodlums who had invaded farmlands in the area.

According to reports, four operatives had been dispatched from the Amotekun Command in Ile-Ife after receiving a distress call from Akinlalu residents. The team, riding on motorcycles, was ambushed by the hoodlums en route to the community. During the attack, two service rifles belonging to the corps were reportedly seized by the assailants.

Reinforcement teams were later deployed and attempted to approach the town peacefully, including paying a courtesy call to the traditional ruler. However, at the T-junction leading into Akinlalu, the attackers allegedly blocked the road and opened fire on the operatives. The ensuing gun duel lasted over an hour.

Amotekun authorities confirmed that three people lost their lives during the exchange, with some suspects arrested while others fled with injuries. The corps also recovered two firearms earlier stolen from its operatives, as well as uniforms and berets allegedly used by the hoodlums for impersonation.

Speaking on the development, the Commander of Osun Amotekun Corps, High Chief Dr. Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, described the ambush as a “cowardly attack” but vowed that it would not deter the agency from carrying out its mandate.

“This cowardly ambush will not deter our operatives from carrying out their duties. The safety and security of our people remain our utmost priority. We will intensify our efforts to root out criminal elements threatening peace in our communities,” he said.

The corps has urged residents of Osun to remain vigilant and to support security agencies with timely information that can help curb criminal activities.