As part of its ongoing operations to rid Oyo State of violent crimes and other criminal elements threatening public safety, the Oyo State Police Command has neutralized three suspected kidnappers and successfully rescued an abducted victim during a coordinated security operation carried out at Otu in the Oke-Ogun axis of the state.
The operation was in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies.
This is contained in a statement by the command’s Public Relations officer, Ayanlade Olayinka in Ibadan.
He said the operation was initiated following a distress call received on 25th May 2026 from local hunters who had gone on a hunting expedition in Otu and came under gunfire attack by suspected kidnappers.
He said no casualty was recorded among the hunters.
The statement reads in part:
“Acting swiftly on the intelligence received, a response team comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies was immediately mobilized to the scene at Otu. Upon arrival, the hoodlums opened fire and engaged the security team in a gun duel.
“However, through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were successfully overpowered, leading to the neutralization of three suspected kidnappers.
“Consequently, the operation also resulted in the successful rescue of an abducted victim, identified as Mr. Mosudi Gbolagade, male, aged about 50 years, who had earlier been kidnapped at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area.
“Although the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident, he has been evacuated for urgent medical attention and is currently receiving treatment.
“In the course of the operation, security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun, and one machete from the scene, further underscoring the violent intent of the criminal elements.
“Regrettably, one of the local hunters sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange and was promptly rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving medical care.
Commending the bravery and synergy displayed during the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command also lauded the gallantry of the local hunters and other security stakeholders whose timely intervention significantly contributed to the success recorded.
