Oyo Police Arrest Suspect Over Abduction of Farmer, Intensify Efforts to Rescue Victim
The Oyo State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in the investigation of a kidnapping incident reported at the Okaka Police Division, leading to the arrest of a suspected member of the criminal gang responsible for the abduction.
The Command disclosed that swift and coordinated security operations launched after the incident have yielded significant progress, with one suspect now in custody while efforts have been intensified to rescue the victim and apprehend other members of the gang.
According to the Police, the incident was reported on June 19, 2026, at about 9:00 a.m., following information that around 1:00 a.m. on the same day, about eight armed men invaded Igboti Village via Okutalogun.
The attackers, reportedly armed with firearms and cutlasses, abducted a 20-year-old farmer and cattle rearer, Michael Benua, and took him to an unknown destination. The suspects were also alleged to have stolen ₦1.24 million and 50,000 CFA during the operation.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, immediately ordered a comprehensive manhunt involving operatives of the Okaka Police Formation, personnel of the Amotekun Corps, and local hunters.
The joint security team subsequently launched intensive search operations across surrounding forests and adjoining communities with the aim of rescuing the victim and tracking down the perpetrators.
Police investigations, including a forensic sweep of the crime scene and extensive combing of nearby bushes, led to the arrest of one Yahaya Auta, 23, whose involvement in the crime was allegedly established during the preliminary investigation.
According to the Command, the suspect confessed to being a member of the kidnapping gang and is currently assisting investigators in efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate and secure the safe release of the victim.
The Command further revealed that its Anti-Kidnapping Squad has reinforced ongoing operations, while intensive search-and-rescue efforts continue across the affected areas.
The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Reassuring residents of the state’s commitment to security, the Police Command urged members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains resolute and fully committed to protecting lives and property across the state, and no effort will be spared in bringing every member of the criminal gang to justice,” the statement said.
For emergencies, residents are encouraged to contact the Oyo State Call Response Centre through the toll-free line 615, or the Oyo State Police Command Control Room on 08081768614 and 07055495413.
The statement was signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, on June 20, 2026.