A clash between operatives of Ondo State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, and police personnel on Sunday left nine people seriously injured and hospitalised.
The clash allegedly occurred when the policemen attacked the Amotekun cell in Akure, the state capital to rescue a suspect linked to a robbery incident.
A complainant was said to have gone to the office of the Amotekun to report the case of a missing motorcycle.
In a swift response, the Amotekun members recovered the stolen motorcycle and arrested the suspect.
But shortly after the arrest, some police officers arrived the Amotekun office and reportedly demanded that the suspect be released to them.
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Sources said officials of both security agencies engaged in a hot argument that degenerated to exchange of gun shots as residents scampered for safety.
Reacting, police spokesperson in the state, Olusola Ayanlade in a statement said the police only responded to prevent a breakdown of law order with the use of professional tear gas and that there was no exchange of gunfire.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the police to collaborate with other security agencies but stressed the need for all personnel to operate within the bounds of the law and established protocols.
(Editor: Okechukwu Eze)
