The Oyo State Police Command has recorded another breakthrough in its ongoing fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state, following a successful security operation in Otu, a community in the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State.
According to the police, the operation led to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers and the rescue of an abducted man who had reportedly been held captive by the criminals.
The development came after local hunters reportedly alerted security operatives about an encounter with armed men suspected to be kidnappers while on a hunting expedition around the forested area of Otu on Sunday, May 25, 2026. The hunters were said to have come under gunfire attack from the suspects, although no casualty was recorded during the initial confrontation.
Following the distress alert, security agencies swiftly mobilised a joint response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security personnel to the affected area in a bid to track down the criminal gang and rescue possible victims.
On getting to the scene, the security team reportedly came under heavy gunfire from the suspected kidnappers, resulting in a fierce exchange of fire between both sides. However, the combined efforts and tactical superiority of the operatives eventually overpowered the suspects.
During the operation, three of the suspected kidnappers were shot dead, while an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, said to be about 50 years old, was rescued from captivity. The victim was reportedly kidnapped in the Okaka area before being moved to the Otu axis where he was held hostage.
The police said the rescued victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was immediately evacuated for urgent medical attention. One of the local hunters involved in the rescue mission also suffered injuries during the gun duel and is currently receiving treatment.
Security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle, a single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene of the operation.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State commended the bravery and cooperation of the local hunters and other security stakeholders who participated in the mission, noting that collaboration between security agencies and local communities remains vital in tackling criminal activities across the state.
The command further assured residents of its continued commitment to intensifying operations against kidnappers, armed robbers, and other criminal elements, while urging members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information that could aid security efforts.
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