Osun State Police Command has launched a manhunt for suspected hoodlums following the killing of a 14-year-old boy identified as Ezekiel Olapade and the injury of another person during a shooting incident near the Irepodun Local Government Secretariat, Ilobu.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Abiodun Ojelabi, said officers had commenced investigations and were intensifying efforts to apprehend the prime suspect, identified as Saheed, popularly known as “Tanfeani”, alongside others believed to have participated in the attack.
According to the police, another victim whose identity had yet to be established also sustained gunshot wounds and was receiving treatment in the hospital.
The relaxation spot, located opposite the council secretariat, was reportedly owned by the deceased’s mother and had several patrons present when the attackers advanced towards the area.
A resident, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the assailants fired indiscriminately, causing people at the scene to flee in different directions.
“The boy who died was probably not the target of those hoodlums. They were shooting in our direction and, in the confusion, Ezekiel was hit by a bullet and died on the spot,” the witness said.
The witness also added that the injured victim was the individual wearing the political party-coloured cap.
The police, however, confirmed that the suspected attackers remained at large and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to bring those responsible to justice.
