The Oyo State Police Command has released an interim update on the ongoing investigation into the tragic shooting of 14-year-old Kehinde Alade, who was killed by a stray bullet during a joint traffic enforcement operation in Ibadan on May 20, 2025.
According to the Command, the preliminary report has been compiled, with critical elements of the investigation still ongoing. A key development pending is the formal statement from Kehinde’s father, Mr. Odunayo Alade, who was reportedly driving against traffic when the incident occurred. Police records indicate that Mr. Alade is a repeat traffic offender and has previously been arrested for related violations.
The police officer responsible for discharging the fatal shot has been arrested and is currently in custody. Commissioner of Police, Johnson Adenola, stated that the Command remains committed to a thorough and transparent investigation, noting that “we will not be stampeded into a rushed judgment—we owe the public a full and accurate account of what transpired.” The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) is receiving daily briefings on the investigation’s progress.
From the government’s end, Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Dotun Oyelade, reaffirmed the Makinde administration’s zero-tolerance policy on injustice. “This will not be swept under the carpet,” Oyelade assured. “We mourn the loss of Kehinde Alade and promise that accountability will be pursued at all levels.”
The incident occurred during a joint patrol operation by the police and the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), launched to protect personnel from increasing assaults by traffic violators. OYRTMA Chairman, Adekoya Adesagba, emphasized the necessity of such patrols, citing the alarming rise in violent resistance against traffic enforcement officers.
According to preliminary findings, the fatal shooting happened during a high-speed police chase after Mr. Alade’s vehicle allegedly violated traffic rules. An officer reportedly fired a shot aimed at the vehicle’s tires, but the bullet struck Kehinde instead. He was immediately rushed to the University College Hospital (UCH), where he was declared dead on arrival.
The Oyo State Police Command appeals for calm and patience as the investigation continues, pledging that justice will be served, and all responsible parties held to account.
