By The Oyo State Police Command has rescued two persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in Oorelope Local Government Area, while one suspected member of the gang was killed during a joint security operation.
The victims were kidnapped on Monday night when armed men invaded Gaa Alhaji in Gbonkan, via Ipapo, firing shots to scare residents before taking away three adult males identified as Alhaji Usman Abubakar, Aliu Usman and Saliu Abubakar.
Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed the Divisional Police Officer in Ipapo to lead a coordinated operation involving police personnel, the Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) and local hunters.
Security operatives processed the crime scene and gathered evidence before extending the search into nearby forests and surrounding communities using intelligence gathered during the investigation.
The operation later led the team to a forest hideout where the suspected kidnappers reportedly opened fire on security personnel, resulting in a gun battle.
Police said one suspected kidnapper was killed during the exchange, while others escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot injuries. A member of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria was injured during the operation and is receiving medical treatment.
Two of the abducted victims were rescued alive. One of them sustained a gunshot wound described by the police as non-life-threatening and was taken to hospital for treatment, while the second victim also received medical attention after the ordeal.
According to the command, the third victim became separated from the others after running in a different direction during the gun battle. Police believe he is safe and have intensified efforts to locate him and reunite him with his family.
The police said operatives have continued the manhunt for the fleeing suspects, expressing confidence that those responsible for the abduction would be arrested and prosecuted.
Speaking on the operation, Police Commissioner Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
”The Command remains unwavering in its constitutional mandate to protect lives and property.”
He also praised the police, Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and local hunters for their coordinated efforts, describing their collaboration as crucial to the success of the rescue mission.
The commissioner assured residents that the operation would continue until the remaining victim is found and every member of the gang is brought to justice.
The command appealed to residents of Ipapo, Gbonkan and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and provide useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.
It also urged members of the public to report anyone with suspicious injuries, particularly gunshot wounds, or individuals seeking medical attention under questionable circumstances, assuring that all information received would be treated confidentially.
