As part of its ongoing operations to rid Oyo State of violent crimes and other criminal elements threatening public safety, the Oyo State Police Command yesterday revealed that it has killed three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, who confirmed the incident on Tuesday, said the successful coordinated security operation was carried out at Otu in the Oke-Ogun axis in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies.
According to him, the operation was initiated following a distress call received on 25 May 2026 from local hunters who had gone on a hunting expedition in Otu and came under gunfire attack by suspected kidnappers.
He said, fortunately, no casualties were recorded among the hunters.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence received, he said a response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies was immediately mobilised to the scene at Otu.
“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.
“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.
“Although the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident, he has been evacuated for urgent medical attention and is currently receiving treatment”, Olayinka said.
In the course of the operation, he said security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barreled gun, and one machete from the scene, further underscoring the violent intent of the criminal elements.
Regrettably, he added that one of the local hunters sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange and was promptly rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving medical care.
Commending the bravery and synergy displayed during the operation, he said the Commissioner of Police lauded the gallantry of the local hunters and other security stakeholders whose timely intervention significantly contributed to the success recorded.
The Command, therefore, reiterated its unwavering commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements across the State and urged residents to remain vigilant by providing credible and timely information to security agencies.
