Gunmen on Tuesday night attacked Ipele community in Ondo State, setting the Divisional Police Headquarters in the area ablaze in a daring assault that heightened security concerns in the state.
The attack, which occurred at about 9:41 p.m. on December 31, was carried out by an estimated 20 to 30 armed men who reportedly stormed the police station, firing assault rifles and deploying explosives.
The assailants set parts of the facility on fire, leading to the destruction of the building and several exhibits.
The Ondo State Police Command said no life was lost in the incident as of the time of filing this report.
It also dismissed claims circulating on social media that a church was attacked during the violence, stressing that the assault was limited to the police facility.
Security sources said a joint team of the Police, Military, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other security partners was mobilised to the scene immediately the incident was reported, but the attackers had already fled.
Condemning the attack, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, described it as a reprehensible act against public peace and security, urging residents to remain calm while assuring them that the situation was under control.
He ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical assets, including special tactical teams, Explosive Ordnance Disposal and CBRN units, as well as Police Mobile Force personnel, to reinforce security in the area.
A coordinated manhunt for the perpetrators is currently underway.
The police said further developments would be communicated as investigations continue.