Dare Babalola
The Oyo State Police Command says it has recorded a major operational breakthrough with the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers and the rescue of an abducted victim during a coordinated security operation in Otu, Oke-Ogun axis of the state.
This was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade.
According to the statement, the operation was launched after a distress call on 25 May 2026 from local hunters who were reportedly attacked by suspected kidnappers during a hunting expedition in the Otu area.
No casualties were recorded among the hunters at that stage.
The Command explained that a combined team of police operatives, local hunters and other security agencies was immediately mobilised to the location following the alert. Upon arrival, the suspected kidnappers engaged the team in a gun duel.
It stated that the security operatives responded with superior firepower and coordination, leading to the neutralisation of three suspects.
The operation also led to the rescue of one abducted victim, identified as Mr. Mosudi Gbolagade, a 50-year-old man who was earlier kidnapped in Okaka and held in the Otu area.
The victim reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and has been taken to a medical facility for treatment.
Security personnel recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun and a machete from the scene.
The Command further confirmed that one of the participating local hunters sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange and is currently receiving medical attention.
Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, praised the collaboration between police operatives and local hunters, describing it as key to the success of the mission.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to sustained operations against criminal elements across the state and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
Emergency contacts provided by the Command include the Oyo State Call Response Center toll-free line 615, as well as 08081768614 and 07055495413.
