The Oyo State Police Command has raised an alarm after a liquid substance suspected to be Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, was found trapped in a well at Omikunle area of Yemetu, Ibadan.
In a statement released on Sunday, the command said the incident was reported to the Yemetu Divisional Police Headquarters at about 6:50 p.m. on Saturday.
“On the evening of September 6, at around 6:50 PM, the Yemetu Division received a tip-off about liquids found in a local well. Promptly, a team led by the Divisional Police Officer, a Chief Superintendent of Police, responded to the scene to investigate further,” the statement read in part.
According to the police, the operatives discovered a lubricant suspected to be diesel, which may have leaked from an underground storage tank nearby inside the well upon their arrival, with residents already gathering to scoop the substance.
The police added that the area had since been secured to prevent any possible health or security hazards.
“In response to this situation, the area has been secured by armed personnel from the Yemetu Division and local neighborhood watch members. We’ve also involved the Oyo State Ministry of Environment to assist with the safe handling and disposal of this hazardous material,” it said.
The police have, however, assured residents that calm has been restored in the area while investigations continue.
“As of now, the situation in the area is calm, and our investigation is underway. The Oyo State Police Command is fully committed to protecting the community, and we will keep you updated as we learn more.
“We encourage everyone to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the police. Thank you for your cooperation!” it added.
