The Oyo State Police Command has announced the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers and the rescue of an abducted victim during a joint security operation in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun area of the state.
According to a release from the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the operation was carried out in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies following a distress call received on May 25, 2026. The call reportedly came from local hunters who were attacked by suspected kidnappers while on a hunting expedition in the area.
Police authorities disclosed that no casualty was recorded among the hunters during the initial attack.
A combined response team comprising police operatives, local hunters and other security personnel was subsequently deployed to Otu. On arrival, the team reportedly came under heavy gunfire from the suspected kidnappers, leading to an exchange of fire.
The police said the operatives successfully overpowered the suspects during the gun duel, resulting in the death of three suspected kidnappers.
The operation also led to the rescue of an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, said to be about 50 years old. He was reportedly kidnapped earlier at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area.
The victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was immediately evacuated to a medical facility, where he is currently receiving treatment.
Security operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, a single-barrel gun and a machete from the scene.
The Command further revealed that one local hunter sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and is receiving medical attention.
Commending the efforts of the security team, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State praised the bravery of the local hunters and other security stakeholders whose collaboration contributed to the success of the operation.
The Police Command reiterated its commitment to intensifying operations against criminal activities across the state and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
