The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the killing of three suspected kidnappers and the rescue of an abducted victim during a joint security operation in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the operation was carried out in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies following a distress call received on May 25, 2026.
The police said the alert came from local hunters who were reportedly attacked by suspected kidnappers while on a hunting expedition in Otu. No casualty was recorded among the hunters during the initial attack.
The statement noted that security operatives responded swiftly by mobilising a joint tactical team to the area. Upon arrival, the suspected kidnappers allegedly opened fire on the operatives, leading to a gun battle.
The command stated that the security team overpowered the criminals through coordinated tactical operations, resulting in the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers.
Police also confirmed the rescue of an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, said to be about 50 years old, who was allegedly kidnapped in Okaka and held captive in the Otu axis. The victim reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and was immediately evacuated for medical attention.
Security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, a single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene, according to the statement.
The police further disclosed that one of the local hunters involved in the operation sustained gunshot injuries and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
Commending the efforts of the local hunters and security stakeholders, the Commissioner of Police praised their bravery and reiterated the command’s commitment to intensifying operations against criminal elements across the state.
The latest security operation comes amid growing tension in Oyo State following the abduction of more than 40 pupils, students, and teachers during attacks on schools in Esiele, Yamota, and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026.
The attackers were also accused of killing an assistant headmaster, Mr Adesiyan Adegboye, while an abducted mathematics teacher, Mr Michael Oyedokun, was later reportedly killed, with a video of the incident circulating online.
Reports had earlier indicated that the kidnappers opened communication channels with the state government, insisting they would only negotiate directly with Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
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