By The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of four passengers abducted in the early hours of March 5, 2026, along the Igbeti–Kishi Road in Oyo State following a swift and coordinated security operation.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the victims were rescued after armed hoodlums reportedly emerged from a nearby bush and blocked the road, intercepting a commercial bus travelling from Igbeti towards Kishi. During the attack, four passengers were forcefully taken into the surrounding bush by the assailants.
Following the report of the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officers of the Igbeti and Kishi divisions, alongside relevant tactical teams, to mobilise operational resources to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
A combined security team comprising police operatives, members of the Amotekun Corps, Operation Burst, and other local security stakeholders subsequently launched an intensive combing operation in the surrounding forests.
The sustained operation, which lasted several hours, mounted significant pressure on the criminals, forcing them to abandon the victims and flee the scene.
The police confirmed that the four passengers were rescued unhurt and have since been reunited with their families.
CP Haruna commended the bravery and professionalism of the joint security team, stressing that effective collaboration among security agencies remains crucial to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
The command also appreciated the support of the Oyo State Government under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde for the prompt response and resources mobilised in support of security operations.
Similarly, the commissioner acknowledged the strategic leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, in directing security efforts across police commands nationwide.
Meanwhile, the police said intelligence-driven operations and bush combing efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects and ensure they are brought to justice.
Recall that yesterday, AfrikTimes reported the confirmed abduction of the four travellers along the Igbeti-Kishi road
The command urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible and timely information to security agencies to aid ongoing crime-fighting efforts.
