Three Suspected Kidnappers Killed, Abducted Victim Rescued in Oyo Forest Operation
Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command, working alongside local hunters and other security agencies, have killed three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim during a security operation in Otu community, located in the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State.
The spokesperson for the Oyo State Police Command, Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday.
According to him, the operation began after local hunters reported that they came under attack by armed men while on a hunting expedition in Otu on May 25.
Although none of the hunters were killed during the attack, the incident prompted an immediate security response.
Ayanlade explained that a joint team comprising police officers, local hunters, and other security operatives was mobilised to the area to track down the suspects.
He said the hoodlums opened fire on the security team when they were confronted inside the forest, leading to a gun battle.
“However, through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were successfully overpowered, leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers,” the statement said.
The operation also led to the rescue of one Mr. Mosudi Gbolagade, said to be about 50 years old, who had earlier been kidnapped from the Okaka community and held captive within the Otu area.
The rescued victim reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was immediately taken for medical treatment.
Security operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle, one single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene of the operation.
One of the hunters involved in the operation was also injured and is currently receiving treatment.
The police spokesperson said the Commissioner of Police commended the bravery and cooperation displayed by the hunters and other security stakeholders whose efforts contributed to the success of the operation.
“The Command therefore reiterates its unwavering commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements across the state and urges residents to remain vigilant by providing credible and timely information to security agencies,” Ayanlade added.
