The Ogun State Police Command has commenced an investigation into a robbery that targeted a bullion van in the Kuto area of Abeokuta, the state capital. This incident resulted in the tragic death of the State Director of Finance, Taiwo Oyenekan, on Wednesday.
The Command’s spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, confirmed this development in a statement provided to PUNCH Online. According to Odutola, the suspected robbers intercepted the bullion van, which was carrying an undisclosed sum of money and three passengers, including the late Oyenekan.
The incident occurred at the overhead bridge in the Kuto area toward Oke Mosan. During the attack, Oyenekan sustained gunshot wounds in his thigh and private area. He was immediately taken to the State’s hospital in Ijaiye, where he was pronounced dead.
Odutola detailed that the Divisional Police Officer of Ibara Police Station led a team to the scene following a report of an armed robbery attack on November 29, 2023. The attack involved a mini bullion van belonging to the Office of the Director of Finance and Administration, Governor’s Office in Oke Mosan Abeokuta.
The bullion van, identified as X pilot 13, was transporting Taiwo Oyenekan, the driver Olalekan Akintoye, and Peter Samson, carrying funds collected from Fidelity Bank and Sterling Bank in Abeokuta. Notably, the van lacked a security escort at the time.
The armed assailants, reportedly five in number and wielding AK-47 rifles, intercepted the bullion van on the Kuto Overhead Bridge using an unregistered silver Toyota Corolla. They questioned the driver about firearms in the vehicle and specifically targeted the Director of Finance. In a display of aggression, they fired shots at the vehicle’s front door, where Oyenekan was seated.
Following this attack, Oyenekan sustained severe injuries and succumbed to them at the State Hospital. The driver and other occupants were unharmed. As of now, no arrests have been made, but efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
Odutola emphasized that an investigation has commenced to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. She reassured the public that there is no need for panic, stating that the Commissioner of Police, CP Alamutu Abiodun Mustapha, assures residents that the situation is under control. Operations are underway to gather more information to apprehend those responsible.