A violent clash between rival thugs in Osogbo, Osun State capital, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left several others injured. The incident occurred at the popular Gbaemu junction, where two groups of thugs, known as the ‘Balogun boys’ and ‘Egbatedo boys’, clashed over extortion attempts on a land developer.
According to eyewitnesses, the ‘Balogun boys’ had already extorted money from the developer earlier in the day, while the ‘Egbatedo boys’ demanded payment as a condition to continue work on the site. The land owner offered to give the ‘Egbatedo boys’ used roofing sheets from the old building, which they accepted. However, the ‘Balogun boys’ objected, claiming the area was not part of the ‘Egbatedo boys’ territory.
The disagreement escalated into a bloody clash, with both groups wielding dangerous weapons such as guns, daggers, cutlasses, and clubs. The violence spread to nearby areas, including Asoje, Oja-Oba, Isale Aro, Orita CMS, Idowu Barber, Oke Woru, and Oke Popo, causing panic among residents.
One thug was killed at Gbaemu during the clash, while a beggar was also hit by a stray bullet. The Osun State Police Command’s Anti-Cultism Unit intervened, dispersing the thugs and restoring peace in the area.
The police spokesperson, Mrs. Yemisi Opalola, confirmed the incident and stated that the perpetrators are being pursued. “We are on the trail of those involved, and we will ensure they face justice,” she said.