Police Gun Down Three Suspected Kidnappers, Rescue Victim In Oyo
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN — THE Oyo State Police Command has neutralized three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim during a coordinated security operation in Otu, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka.
According to the statement, the operation was carried out in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies as part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of violent crimes and criminal elements threatening public safety.
The police explained that the operation followed a distress call received on May 25, 2026, from local hunters who came under attack while on a hunting expedition in Otu. The hunters were reportedly ambushed and fired upon by suspected kidnappers, although no casualty was recorded.
“Acting swiftly on the intelligence received, a response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies was immediately mobilized to the scene,” the statement said.
It added that upon arrival at the location, the suspected kidnappers opened fire on the security team, leading to a gun duel.
“Through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were successfully overpowered, leading to the neutralization of three suspected kidnappers,” the police stated.
During the operation, security operatives also rescued an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, aged about 50, who was allegedly kidnapped earlier at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area.
The victim reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was immediately evacuated to a medical facility, where he is currently receiving treatment.
Items recovered from the scene included an AK-47 rifle without ammunition, a single-barrel gun, and a machete.
The police, however, disclosed that one of the local hunters involved in the operation sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and is also receiving medical attention.
Commending the bravery and collaboration of the local hunters and other security stakeholders, the Commissioner of Police in the state praised their gallantry and timely intervention, which contributed significantly to the success of the operation.
The command reiterated its commitment to intensifying operations against criminal elements across the state and urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies.