Police Rescue Kidnapped Victim in Oyo, Neutralise Three Suspected Abductors

The Nigeria Police Force in Oyo State has confirmed the rescue of an abducted man and the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers during a joint security operation in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun area of the state.

The operation, carried out in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies, also led to the rescue of a victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, about 50 years old.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the incident followed a distress call on May 25, 2026, after local hunters were reportedly attacked by suspected kidnappers while on a hunting expedition in Otu.

The attackers were said to have opened fire on the hunters, though no casualties were recorded in the initial encounter.

Acting on the report, a combined response team comprising police operatives, hunters, and other security personnel was quickly deployed to the scene.

Upon arrival, the security team reportedly came under fire from the suspects, leading to a gun duel between both sides.

The police stated that the criminals were eventually overpowered through what they described as superior tactical coordination, resulting in the death of three suspected kidnappers.

During the operation, the abducted victim—who was allegedly kidnapped in Okaka and taken to the Otu area—was rescued but sustained gunshot injuries and was immediately taken to a medical facility for treatment.

One of the local hunters also suffered gunshot wounds and is currently receiving treatment in a hospital.

Recovered from the scene were one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun, and a machete, all of which have been taken as exhibits for investigation.

The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State commended the bravery of the local hunters and the collaborative effort of all security agencies involved in the operation, describing it as crucial to the success of the mission.