Police Kill 3 Suspected Kidnappers, Rescue Abducted Victim In Oyo

The Oyo State Police Command has killed three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim during a coordinated security operation in Otu, Oke-Ogun axis of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed the incident on Tuesday, saying the operation was carried out in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies.

According to him, the operation followed a distress call received on May 25, 2026, from local hunters who were on a hunting expedition in Otu and came under attack by suspected kidnappers.

He said no casualties were recorded among the hunters during the initial attack.

Acting on the intelligence, a joint response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies was immediately mobilised to the scene.

“Upon arrival, the hoodlums opened fire and engaged the security team in a gun duel,” he said.

“However, through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were overpowered, leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers.”

Olayinka added that the operation also led to the rescue of an abducted victim, identified as Mr Mosudi Gbolagade, aged about 50 years, who was kidnapped at Okaka and held in the Otu area.

He said the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and has been evacuated for urgent medical attention.

According to him, security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun, and one machete from the scene.

He also disclosed that one of the local hunters sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange and is currently receiving treatment in hospital.

Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police praised the gallantry of the local hunters and the synergy among security agencies involved in the mission.

The command reiterated its commitment to sustained operations against criminal elements in the state and urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies.