Oyo Police Neutralise 3 Suspected Kidnappers, Rescue Abducted Victim In Otu

HThe Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the killing of three suspected kidnappers during a joint security operation in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun axis of the state, while an abducted victim was rescued alive.

The operation, carried out by police operatives in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies, followed a distress call from hunters who reportedly came under attack during a hunting expedition in the area.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the command disclosed that the operation was triggered by intelligence received on May 25, 2026.

“The operation was initiated following a distress call received on 25th May 2026 from local hunters who had gone on a hunting expedition in Otu and came under gunfire attack by suspected kidnappers,” the statement said.

The police noted that no casualty was recorded among the hunters during the initial encounter.

According to the command, a combined response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies was immediately mobilised to the scene.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence received, a response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies was immediately mobilised to the scene at Otu,” the statement added.

The command explained that the suspected kidnappers opened fire on the security team upon arrival, leading to a gun duel.

“Upon arrival, the hoodlums opened fire and engaged the security team in a gun duel. However, through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were successfully overpowered, leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers,” the police stated.

The operation also led to the rescue of an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, aged about 50, who was reportedly kidnapped at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area.

“Consequently, the operation also resulted in the successful rescue of an abducted victim, identified as Mr. Mosudi Gbolagade, male, aged about 50 years, who had earlier been kidnapped at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area,” the statement read.

The police said the rescued victim sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and had been taken to a medical facility for treatment.

Security operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene.

The command further disclosed that one of the local hunters involved in the operation sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to hospital for medical attention.

Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State praised the “bravery and synergy” demonstrated by the local hunters and other security agencies.

The police command reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining ongoing operations against criminal elements across the state and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible and timely information.