Ode Remo, Nigeria – A hostel in Ode Remo, where students from the Gateway ICT Polytechnic Saapade reside, was plunged into chaos on Thursday morning as a gun battle erupted between the state police command and suspected robbers.
According to reports, the police engaged in a gun duel with armed robbers, resulting in the death of one unidentified robber. The incident began in the early hours of the morning when four suspected robbers invaded the area and began to rob the hostel’s residents.
During the operation, students were robbed of their mobile phones and other electronic devices. However, as the robbery was underway, a resident managed to alert the police about the situation.
Upon the arrival of the police, the suspected robbers opened fire on the anti-crime patrol team dispatched to rescue the students. This led to the death of one of the robbers, as well as injuries sustained by the other fleeing suspects.
Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, revealed that the police recovered stolen items such as iPhones, a Techno phone, a wristwatch, an iPod, and a power bank. Efforts are currently underway to apprehend the other fleeing suspects.
This is not the first time the polytechnic and student hostels in Saapade have been targeted by robbers. In recent months, reports of robberies and violent incidents have surfaced, leaving students and residents in fear and uncertainty.
In December 2023, a student named Segun was tragically killed in a robbery incident in the area. Prior to that, in November 2023, suspected robbers invaded the student hostels, leading to sporadic shootings, theft of personal belongings, and the reported molestation of female students.
The continuous security challenges in the area highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures to protect the students and residents from further harm. Authorities and community leaders must work together to address these security concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of the students and residents in the area.