Gunmen on a motorcycle on Saturday attacked a police checkpoint at Ipele Junction, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, shooting two police officers and a female civilian.
The incident occurred while operatives of the Safer Highway Patrol were carrying out routine duties at the checkpoint.
According to police sources, about three armed men rode into the area and, without provocation, opened fire on the officers on duty.
Two policemen sustained gunshot wounds in the attack, while a woman identified simply as Taiwo was hit by stray bullets.
Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Kazeem, said the officers were attacked while performing their lawful responsibilities.
He said the patrol team promptly engaged the assailants, forcing them to flee the scene.
“All the injured victims were promptly taken to the hospital and are currently receiving medical care,” Kazeem stated.
The police spokesman disclosed that one of the suspects, identified as Nwabali, was arrested at the scene, while the motorcycle used by the attackers was recovered.
He added that the suspect, now in custody, has been providing useful information to assist ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing accomplices, noting that he would be charged to court after investigations.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Adebowale Lawal, condemned the attack, describing it as “tragic and condemnable.”
Lawal commended the Safer Highway Patrol officers for their courage and swift response, saying their action prevented a more devastating outcome.