The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the killing of three suspected kidnappers and the rescue of an abducted victim during a joint security operation in Otu, in the Oke-Ogun area of the state.
The operation, according to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, was carried out in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies as part of intensified efforts to tackle violent crimes across Oyo State.
DSP Olayinka disclosed that the incident began on Sunday, May 25, 2026, when local hunters on a hunting expedition in Otu reportedly came under attack from suspected kidnappers who opened fire on them.
He noted that no casualty was recorded among the hunters during the initial attack.
Following a distress call, security operatives were immediately mobilized to the area. On getting to the scene, the suspected kidnappers engaged the operatives in a gun duel.
The police spokesman said the combined team of security personnel and local hunters overpowered the suspects, leading to the neutralization of three suspected kidnappers.
During the operation, an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, aged about 50, was rescued from captivity.
The victim was reportedly kidnapped earlier at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area.
Although the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident, the police said he had been evacuated to a medical facility where he is currently receiving treatment.
Security operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, a 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 also receiving medical attention.
Commending the bravery and synergy among the security operatives and local hunters involved in the mission, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State praised the timely intervention and collaboration that led to the success of the operation.
The Police Command reiterated its commitment to intensifying operations against criminal elements across the state and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
