Residents of Innayin community in Oyo State were gripped by fear on Thursday after a wild elephant reportedly stormed the area, resulting in the death of one man and the disappearance of another.
The incident occurred in the afternoon at about 3:30 p.m., when locals first noticed the animal moving unusually close to residential surroundings, triggering alarm across the community.
According to the Oyo State Police Command, officers were quickly mobilised after a distress call, working alongside vigilantes and local hunters to contain the situation and search the surrounding bush.
Police spokesperson, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed that the body of a 45-year-old man, Ibrahim Tijani, was later found in a nearby bush with injuries believed to have been caused by the animal attack. His remains were taken to the General Hospital in Iwere-Ile for preservation and further examination.
The command also disclosed that another resident, 50-year-old Alhaji Muhammadu Bingin, is currently missing after reportedly coming into contact with the elephant during the chaos. Search and rescue operations are still ongoing.
Security teams have since been deployed across the area to prevent further harm, with authorities urging residents to steer clear of the affected zone while operations continue.
Officials also noted that wildlife experts, including representatives from the National Park Service, are being engaged to handle the situation in line with conservation and safety protocols.
Commissioner of Police Abimbola Olugbenga assured residents that efforts are in full motion to restore calm, stressing that coordinated action is underway to secure the community and prevent further casualties.
He appealed for patience and cooperation from the public as security personnel and stakeholders work to bring the situation under control safely.
