3 Suspected Kidnappers Killed, Abducted Victim Rescued in Oyo Gun Battle

Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command, in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies, have neutralized three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim during a fierce gun battle in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun axis of the state.
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‎This was contained in a statement released by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO)
‎26th May, 2026, via official X handle
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‎According to the statement,the dramatic operation followed a distress call on May 25, 2026, from local hunters who reportedly came under attack while on a hunting expedition in the area. Although no casualty was recorded among the hunters, the report triggered a swift security response.
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‎”A joint team of police operatives, local hunters, and other security personnel stormed the kidnappers’ hideout in Otu, where they were met with heavy gunfire from the suspected criminals. Security forces, however, overpowered the gang in a coordinated tactical operation, killing three of the suspected kidnappers,” he stated
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‎During the operation, the team also rescued a kidnap victim, identified as 50-year-old Mosudi Gbolagade, who was reportedly abducted earlier at Okaka and held captive in the Otu area.
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‎ “The victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was immediately evacuated for urgent medical treatment. One of the local hunters involved in the operation also suffered gunshot wounds and is currently receiving care in hospital,” he said
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‎Security operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle without ammunition, a single-barrel gun, and a machete from the scene.
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‎Commending the bravery of the local hunters and other security stakeholders, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State praised their courage and timely intervention, noting that the successful rescue and neutralization of the suspects highlighted the importance of collaboration in tackling insecurity.
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‎The police reiterated their commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against criminal elements across Oyo State and urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to security agencies.
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