Three suspected kidnappers have been killed and an abducted victim rescued during a joint security operation in Otu, in the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the development on Tuesday, saying the operation was carried out with the support of local hunters and other security agencies.
Police spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the mission was launched after local hunters on a hunting expedition in Otu came under attack from suspected kidnappers on May 25, 2026.
He explained that the hunters escaped the initial ambush without casualties and quickly alerted security operatives.
Acting on the intelligence, a joint team of police officers, local hunters, and other security personnel stormed the area.
According to Olayinka, the suspects opened fire on the operatives, triggering a fierce gun battle.
“Through superior tactical response and coordinated efforts, the criminals were overpowered, leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers,” he said.
During the operation, security operatives rescued a kidnap victim, identified as 50-year-old Mosudi Gbolagade, who was abducted in Okaka and held captive in the Otu axis.
The victim reportedly sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed for urgent medical treatment.
Security operatives also recovered an AK-47 rifle without ammunition, a single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene.
One of the local hunters involved in the operation was also injured during the exchange of gunfire and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
The Commissioner of Police commended the bravery of the local hunters and praised the collaboration among security agencies.
The police command reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on criminal activities across the state and urged residents to continue sharing credible intelligence with security operatives.
