Old Oyo Park Massacre: Police Arrest Mastermind, Six Bandits Behind Killing Of Five Rangers

The Oyo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation of the deadly attack at Old Oyo National Park, Oloka area of Orire Local Government Area, with the arrest of the alleged mastermind and six other members of the armed bandit gang responsible for the killing of five forest rangers and park operatives.

The gruesome attack occurred on January 6, 2026, at about 9:00 p.m., when heavily armed bandits, riding on motorcycles, stormed the park’s office and opened fire indiscriminately. The assault left five personnel dead and sent shockwaves across the state, raising fresh concerns about security around protected forest reserves.

Police sources disclosed that following the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Femi Haruna, psc+, immediately deployed tactical units and ordered an intelligence-led manhunt across multiple states. The operation, which spanned several days, culminated in the arrest of seven suspects believed to be part of a ten-man gang that carried out the attack.

Those arrested were identified as Mohammed Dangi, 52, alleged to be the mastermind; Abubakar Abdullahi; Sheu Usman; Toro Malami, 43; Usman Alhaji Ummaru; Laolo Muhammadu, 22; and Usman Alhaji Isah, 32. The suspects were apprehended at different locations across the country during coordinated security operations.

Investigations revealed that the attack was deliberately carried out to forcefully free some members of the gang who had earlier been arrested and detained by forest guards operating within the national park. Police sources said the suspects admitted that the mission was a retaliatory operation aimed at overpowering the guards and securing the release of their detained associates.

According to the police, the suspects have made confessional statements and are currently providing “actionable intelligence” to aid ongoing operations. Efforts are now being intensified to track down and arrest the remaining members of the gang who are still on the run.

The Oyo State Police Command reassured residents that the state will not be allowed to serve as a safe haven for criminals, stressing that the fight against banditry and violent crimes remains firm and uncompromising.

“The Command is determined to ensure that all those involved in this heinous crime are brought to justice. We urge residents to remain calm and continue to support the police with credible information,” a senior police source said.

The suspects are expected to be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.