The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspected kidnapper during an operation that successfully disrupted a ₦10 million ransom collection attempt in Oyo State.
Police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade confirmed on Thursday that the arrest followed credible intelligence provided by operatives of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, which helped security forces intercept the gang in Otefon Village, Atiba Local Government Area.
The victim, identified as Alhaji Bagudu, was abducted from his home in Ilowa Village on May 9, 2026, by armed men who later moved him to a forest hideout where they demanded ransom for his release.
According to the police, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad were deployed after intelligence revealed that the suspects had gathered in Otefon forest to collect the ransom from the victim’s family.
Security forces initially ensured the safe release of the victim before moving in on the suspects at the ransom collection point.
Upon sighting the operatives, the kidnappers reportedly opened fire, leading to a gun duel in which one suspect, Mohammed Sanni, was arrested while others escaped with suspected gunshot injuries.
Items recovered from the scene include a motorcycle, a mobile phone, footwear, and other personal belongings now undergoing forensic analysis.
The police said the arrested suspect has already made useful confessional statements, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing members of the gang.
Authorities urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely information to strengthen ongoing anti-crime operations in the state.
