The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of four passengers who were abducted in the early hours of March 5 along the Igbeti–Kishi road following a coordinated security operation.
According to the command, the victims were kidnapped after armed hoodlums reportedly emerged from a nearby bush and blocked the road, intercepting a commercial bus travelling from Igbeti to Kishi. During the attack, the gunmen forcefully took four passengers into the surrounding forest.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the command, Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed that security agencies quickly mobilised after the incident was reported.
He explained that the Commissioner of Police in the state, Femi Haruna, immediately directed Divisional Police Officers in Igbeti and Kishi divisions, alongside tactical units, to deploy operational resources to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
Following the directive, a joint security team made up of police operatives, members of the Amotekun Corps, personnel of Operation Burst, and other local security stakeholders launched an intensive search operation in the forests surrounding the area.
Security operatives conducted sustained bush-combing operations for several hours, mounting pressure on the kidnappers.
The pressure from the security team reportedly forced the criminals to abandon the victims and flee the area.
The four passengers were subsequently rescued unharmed and later reunited with their families.
The police commissioner commended the bravery and professionalism of the combined security team, noting that cooperation among various security agencies remains critical to protecting lives and property across the state.
The command also acknowledged the support of the Oyo State Government under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde for the prompt mobilisation of resources in support of security operations.
Authorities said security operatives have continued intelligence-driven operations and surveillance in the area to track down the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice. The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information that could assist ongoing security efforts.
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