The Oyo State Police Command has announced the safe release of Mr. Owoade Mathew, the farmer who was abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State.
The Command disclosed this in a press statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, saying the victim regained his freedom following sustained pressure mounted on the abductors by a joint security team.
According to the statement, Mr. Mathew was kidnapped on July 12, 2026, while travelling along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road, prompting the Command to launch an immediate coordinated rescue operation involving security personnel and other relevant agencies.
The Police explained that the intensive investigative efforts and coordinated security operation compelled the kidnappers to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on the evening of July 13, 2026.
“The intense operational pressure mounted on the abductors forced the hoodlums to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on the evening of July 13, 2026,” the statement said.
Following his rescue, the victim was taken to a medical facility for evaluation and necessary treatment.
The Command added that after receiving medical attention, the farmer would be debriefed by investigators as part of ongoing efforts to obtain useful information that would assist in identifying, apprehending and prosecuting those responsible for the abduction.
Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the collaborative efforts of security agencies, community members and residents whose support contributed to the successful operation.
He reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, assuring residents that criminal elements would not be allowed to operate freely within Oyo State.
The Commissioner also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely, credible and actionable information that would support ongoing security operations and strengthen the fight against crime.
The Police Command reaffirmed its resolve to sustain intelligence-led policing and collaborative security operations aimed at combating kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes across the state.
The statement further urged residents to report suspicious activities through the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line, 615, or the Oyo State Police Command Control Room on 08081768614 and 07055495413.
