Oyo Police Neutralise Suspected Kidnappers During Cross Fire, Rescue Abducted Victim in Otu
The Oyo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its ongoing crackdown on violent crimes with the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers and the rescue of an abducted victim during a coordinated security operation in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun area of the state.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, 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 alert indicated that local hunters on a hunting expedition in Otu had come under attack from suspected kidnappers who opened fire on them. Fortunately, no casualty was recorded among the hunters during the initial attack.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, security operatives comprising police personnel, local hunters, and other security agencies were mobilised to the area.
On arrival, the suspected kidnappers reportedly engaged the joint security team in a gun duel. However, the operatives overpowered the criminals through what the police described as a “superior tactical response and coordinated effort,” leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers.
The operation also led to the successful rescue of an abducted victim identified as Mr. Mosudi Gbolagade, aged about 50, who had earlier been kidnapped in Okaka and held captive within the Otu area.
Although the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the operation, the police confirmed that he had been evacuated for urgent medical attention and is currently receiving treatment.
Security operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene.
The Command further disclosed that one of the local hunters sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and is currently receiving medical care at a hospital.
Commending the bravery and synergy displayed during the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, praised the gallantry of the local hunters and other security stakeholders whose timely intervention contributed significantly to the success of the mission.
The Police Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements across the state and urged residents to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies.
Residents were also encouraged to report emergencies through the Oyo State Call Response Centre toll-free line 615, or the Police Command control room lines: 08081768614 and 07055495413.