The Oyo State Police and local security partners have neutralized three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim in Otu, following a May 25, 2026, distress call from hunters who came under fire.
The operation in the Oke-Ogun area was confirmed by Command spokesperson DSP Ayanlade Olayinka in a Tuesday statement.
The police said no casualties were recorded among the hunters during the initial attack.
“Acting swiftly on the intelligence received, a response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies was immediately mobilised to the scene at Otu,” the statement said.
It added that the suspected kidnappers opened fire on the security team upon arrival, leading to a gun duel.
“Through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were successfully overpowered, leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers,” the command stated.
The police also said the operation led to the rescue of an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, aged about 50, who was allegedly kidnapped at Okaka and held captive in the Otu area.
According to the statement, the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was evacuated for medical treatment.
The police further disclosed that security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene.
The command also confirmed that one of the local hunters sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
Commending the operation, the Commissioner of Police in the state praised the bravery of the local hunters and other security stakeholders involved in the rescue mission.
“The Command therefore reiterates its unwavering commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements across the state and urges residents to remain vigilant by providing credible and timely information to security agencies,” the statement added.
