The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of a 14-year-old student, Kehinde Alade, who was struck by a stray bullet allegedly fired by a police officer on Monday, May 20.
In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Osifeso Adewale, the incident occurred during a joint traffic enforcement operation involving officers of the Oyo State Police Command and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA).
According to the statement, the incident happened at approximately 7:45 a.m. along Airport Roundabout, Alakia-Adelubi/Airport Road in Egbeda Local Government Area. The enforcement team attempted to stop a black Honda Accord (Lagos registration number FST 639 JJ) driven by Mr. Odunayo Alade, the father of the deceased student, who was allegedly driving against traffic.
“Instead of complying with lawful directives, the driver reportedly accelerated toward the enforcement team in an attempt to evade arrest, ramming into two OYTMA vehicles and a police Buffalo Patrol truck,” the statement read.
To prevent further danger to officers and road users, barricades were set up to demobilise the fleeing vehicle. However, the driver allegedly broke through them, continuing to drive recklessly and endanger lives.
Due to the erratic behaviour of the driver, officers suspected a possible case of abduction or other criminal activity. A police chase ensued. During the pursuit, a police corporal discharged a firearm aimed at the vehicle’s tyres in an attempt to immobilise it. Tragically, the bullet missed and struck 14-year-old Kehinde Alade, who was seated in the rear seat.
The victim was rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), where he was confirmed dead on arrival. His body has been deposited at the Adeoyo State Hospital mortuary for autopsy and preservation.
CSP Osifeso stated that the Commissioner of Police has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident, to be led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). The officer who fired the shot has been taken into custody and, along with other team members, is cooperating with the investigation.
“The Command assures the public that the investigation will be transparent and its findings made public,” the statement said.
The police spokesperson also extended the Command’s deepest condolences to the family of Kehinde Alade, reaffirming its commitment to justice and accountability.
In case of emergency, the public is advised to contact the Oyo State Call Response Centre by dialling 615 or calling any of the following numbers: 08081768614, 09054133071, and 09061299291.
