The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the death of a 14-year-old boy, Kehinde Alade, during a traffic enforcement operation in Ibadan on Tuesday, revealing that his father, Odunayo Alade, was driving against traffic and attempted to evade arrest before the fatal shooting.
According to a detailed press release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Adewale Osifeso, and made available to the media, the tragic incident occurred around 7:45 am at Airport Roundabout, Alakia-Adelubi/Airport Road in Egbeda Local Government Area.
“The Oyo State Police Command regrets to inform the general public of a tragic incident that occurred during a joint traffic enforcement operation with the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA), which led to the unfortunate death of a 14-year-old male, Kehinde Alade,” the statement said.
The incident began when a joint enforcement team comprising OYTMA and the police attempted to stop a black Honda Accord with Lagos registration number FST 639 JJ.
“The driver, one Odunayo Alade, ‘m’ (father of the deceased), was found to be driving against traffic (one-way). Rather than complying with lawful directives, the driver allegedly accelerated towards the enforcement team in an attempt to evade arrest, ramming into two OYTMA vehicles and a Police Buffalo Patrol truck,” the statement added.
In a bid to stop further endangerment to officers and the public, barricades were reportedly erected, but the driver continued driving dangerously.
“The driver reportedly broke through these barricades, continuing to drive recklessly and endangering lives,” the police said.
Due to the aggressive and evasive behaviour of the driver, officers suspected possible abduction or criminal activity. In the ensuing chase, a police corporal aimed at the vehicle’s tyres in an attempt to stop it.
“Tragically, the bullet missed and struck Kehinde Alade ‘m’, who was seated in the rear seat behind the driver,” the statement confirmed.
He was rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH) Ibadan, where he was confirmed dead on arrival. His body has been deposited at the Adeoyo State Hospital mortuary for autopsy and preservation.
To prevent a breakdown of law and order in the aftermath, Commissioner of Police, CP Johnson Adenola, psc, deployed tactical and intelligence units.
“This swift response restored calm, ensured public safety, and allowed for normal activities to resume,” the release said.
The police further assured the public of a transparent investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident, to be led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). The officer responsible for the discharge of the firearm has been taken into custody and, along with other members of the team, is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation.”
The Command also extended its condolences to the Alade family:
“The Oyo State Police Command extends its deepest condolences to the family of Kehinde Alade. The Command remains resolute in its commitment to upholding justice and ensuring accountability.”
Members of the public were also urged to reach out to the Oyo State Police Command through the Oyo State Call Response Centre (dial 615) or the following control room numbers: 08081768614, 09054133071, and 09061299291.
“Further updates will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” the release concluded.
