By The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed that its operatives foiled a suspected kidnapping attempt along the Onigambari axis along the Mamu- Ijebu-Ode Road after gunmen launched an attack on travellers on the evening of Saturday, April 18, 2026.
According to a statement provided by the police spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade, to journalists on Wednesday, the suspected kidnappers targeted vehicles conveying passengers returning from a social gathering in Ibadan.
He noted that during the attack, occupants were thrown into panic as they abandoned their vehicles and fled into nearby bushes to avoid being abducted.
“The Oyo state Police Command foiled an attempted kidnapping incident which occurred on 18th April 2026 at about 1830hrs at Onigambari along the Mamu/Ijebu-Ode Road.
“Preliminary information available indicates that some hoodlums attacked vehicles conveying passengers who were returning from a social event in Ibadan. During the incident, victims fled into the surrounding bush for safety but were later reunited,” he revealed.
The statement disclosed that a distress call from the scene prompted an immediate response, which disrupted the operation and forced the assailants to retreat before carrying out any abduction.
The spokesperson added that two persons sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving treatment at medical facilities in Ibadan. Other victims from affected vehicles were also said to have reported at the Awa-Ijebu Police Division, where they are undergoing treatment.
He further noted that the Commissioner of Police has ordered increased security presence along the affected corridor, with additional operatives deployed to prevent further attacks and apprehend preparators.
“The Commissioner of Police has since deployed additional operatives to the affected axis to strengthen security and forestall any further criminal activities. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators, while investigation into the incident has commenced,” he added.
The command urge residents and commuters to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible intelligence for continued investigation.
