The Oyo State Police Command has announced that its operatives, working alongside local hunters and other security agencies, eliminated three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim during a coordinated security operation in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun area of the state.
The operation was triggered by a distress call received on 25 May 2026 from local hunters who came under gunfire attack from suspected kidnappers whilst on a hunting expedition in the area. DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the police spokesperson, disclosed the operation in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Upon receiving the intelligence, a response team comprising police operatives, local hunters and other security agencies was rapidly mobilised to the scene. The suspected kidnappers engaged the security team with gunfire upon arrival, leading to a confrontation.
“Through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were successfully overpowered, leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers,” the command stated.
Through coordinated tactical response, the security forces overpowered the criminals. Three suspected kidnappers were neutralised during the exchange of fire. The operation resulted in the rescue of Mosudi Gbolagade, aged approximately 50, who had been kidnapped at Okaka and held captive in the Otu area.
Gbolagade sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was evacuated for medical treatment. One local hunter was also injured during the firefight and is currently receiving hospital care.
Security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun and a machete from the scene. The command stated that no hunters were killed during the initial attack that triggered the operation.
The Commissioner of Police commended the bravery of the local hunters and other security stakeholders who participated in the rescue mission. The command reiterated its commitment to sustained aggressive operations against criminal elements across Oyo State.
The police urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible, timely information to security agencies to support ongoing operations against criminals operating in the state.
