The Oyo State Police Command has said its operatives, in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies, neutralised three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim during a security operation in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun axis of the state.
The command disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka.
According to the statement, the operation followed a distress call received on May 25, 2026, from local hunters who reportedly came under gunfire attack from suspected kidnappers while on a hunting expedition in Otu.
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.
