By Peace Erewunmi

The Oyo State Government has demolished a residential property allegedly used as a hideout by criminal elements and a storage facility for arms and ammunition in a renewed effort to combat insecurity across the state.

The property, comprising a storey building and two bungalows within a fenced compound, was located in the Gbenku community along Arubiewe Road, off Olodo Garage in Egbeda Local Government Area of Ibadan. The demolition was carried out by officials of the state government in collaboration with security agencies.

Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, said investigations by security agencies led to the discovery of weapons and ammunition allegedly concealed within the premises. Following the submission of security reports, the state government approved the demolition of the property.

According to the commissioner, the action forms part of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration’s ongoing efforts to tackle kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities threatening public safety in the state. He emphasized that properties used to facilitate criminal activities would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law.

Mogbonjubola noted that the demolition sends a strong message to criminal elements that Oyo State will not tolerate any activity capable of undermining peace and security. He also urged residents to support security agencies by reporting suspicious activities and movements within their communities.

The commissioner further advised landlords and property owners to carry out proper background checks on prospective tenants to help prevent criminal elements from using residential properties as operational bases.

Government officials reiterated their commitment to working closely with security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and sustain efforts aimed at improving security across all parts of the state. The demolition is the latest in a series of measures introduced to address security concerns and protect lives and property.