Oyo State Police Successfully Liberate Kidnap Victims and Apprehend Criminal Syndicates

The Oyo State Police Command has triumphantly freed a 60-year-old kidnapping victim, Isiaku Saidu, in Iseyin, located within the Iseyin Local Government Area. This breakthrough was accompanied by the arrest of three individuals linked to a kidnapping ring operating in the Itesiwaju Local Government Area.

Strategic Police Operations Under Commissioner Femi Haruna’s Leadership

According to Olayinka Ayanlade, the police spokesperson in Ibadan, these achievements stem from a firm directive by the state Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, emphasizing an uncompromising approach to safeguarding lives and property throughout Oyo State. The command has recently recorded several operational victories, including thwarting kidnapping attempts, rescuing abducted persons, and detaining suspects involved in violent crimes.

Details of the Iseyin Kidnapping Incident and Rescue Mission

On January 11, 2026, a group of approximately five armed assailants, wielding firearms and machetes, launched an attack in Budo, Iseyin, entering through Bassi Camp. They abducted Isiaku Saidu, a 60-year-old male. Upon receiving this intelligence, the Commissioner of Police mandated an all-out effort to recover the victim and bring the perpetrators to justice.

In response, the Divisional Police Officer of Ago-Are, collaborating with allied agencies, conducted intensive patrols and thorough searches in the surrounding bushland. This operation led to the identification of the kidnappers’ hideout. When confronted, the suspects engaged the police in a gunfight, resulting in one suspect being neutralized and another apprehended. The captured individual is currently assisting investigators, while the remaining suspects escaped with gunshot wounds.

The police have appealed to the public to report any individuals with bullet injuries to the nearest law enforcement authorities to aid in the ongoing manhunt.

Successful Rescue and Arrests in Itesiwaju Local Government Area

Following the disruption of the Iseyin kidnapping, police vigilance extended to Komu in the Itesiwaju Local Government Area, where Hussinat Abubakar, a female victim, was abducted at Gelede Camp. Acting swiftly, the Divisional Police Officer of Komu, alongside partner agencies, launched a comprehensive search operation.

This effort culminated in the victim’s safe recovery without any ransom payment and the arrest of three suspects: Kari Ibrahim (22), Dure Jimoh (25), and Abubakar Sidi (55). The suspects have admitted their involvement, and investigations are ongoing to dismantle the entire syndicate.

Currently, the rescued victim is receiving medical care and psychological support at a local hospital. The suspects will face prosecution once the investigation concludes. Additionally, six spent cartridges were recovered at the scene, underscoring the violent nature of the crime and the police’s commitment to swift justice.

Oyo Police’s Commitment to Combating Kidnapping and Enhancing Public Safety

These recent operations highlight the Oyo State Police Command’s unwavering dedication to curbing kidnapping activities and protecting citizens. With kidnapping cases reportedly rising by 15% in the Southwest region over the past year, such proactive measures are critical in restoring public confidence and deterring criminal enterprises.

Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement by promptly reporting suspicious activities or individuals, especially those exhibiting signs of injury or distress.