Oyo CP: Kidnappers Operated Undetected in Residential Area as Residents Stayed Silent

The Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbenga, has revealed that a kidnappers’ hideout recently uncovered by security operatives in Ibadan was located within a residential compound in the Oluyole area, raising concerns over the lack of community vigilance.
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‎Speaking with journalists during an inspection of the location, the police chief disclosed that residents had observed the suspects moving in and out of the premises but failed to report their activities to security agencies.
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‎According to him, victims rescued from the hideout narrated that while in captivity, they could hear activities taking place in neighbouring compounds, indicating that the criminals were operating in close proximity to unsuspecting residents.
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‎The Commissioner lamented that the silence of community members had allowed the criminal syndicate to operate freely and evade detection for an extended period.
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‎He therefore urged members of the public to adopt the “See Something, Say Something” approach by promptly reporting suspicious movements and activities to the police and other relevant authorities.
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‎Olugbenga assured residents that investigations into the activities of the syndicate were ongoing and that efforts were being intensified to track down and arrest all those connected to the kidnapping network.
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‎He reiterated the commitment of the Oyo State Police Command to safeguarding lives and property, while calling for greater cooperation between citizens and security agencies in the fight against crime.
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