Police Rescue Abducted Children In Oyo, Arrest Suspected Kidnappers

The Oyo State Police Command has successfully rescued two abducted children and arrested four suspected kidnappers during coordinated intelligence-driven operations conducted across different parts of the state.

According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the operation was launched after a distress call reported that armed men invaded Ebinpejo Village via Lanlate in Ibarapa East Local Government Area, where they attacked residents and abducted two children.

The Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, subsequently ordered a joint rescue mission involving police operatives, the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, and hunters. Acting on credible intelligence and technical support, the combined security team traced the suspects’ hideout in a forested area.

During the operation, the kidnappers reportedly engaged the security forces in a gun duel. One suspect, Umaru Usman, 25, was arrested with gunshot injuries, and three mobile phones were recovered from him. Another suspect, Abdullahi Ahmed, 28, was also apprehended with injuries believed to have been sustained during the exchange of fire.

Further investigations led to the arrest of Sunday Idowu, 30, identified as a local collaborator, and Muhammed Ibrahim Shina, 29, who allegedly traveled from Ilorin, Kwara State, to take part in the abduction operation.

Authorities confirmed that all four suspects are currently assisting investigators in efforts to track down other members of the criminal gang.

The two abducted children were rescued alive, received medical attention, and have since been reunited with their families, with one of the victims treated for injuries sustained while in captivity.

The police command reassured residents of its commitment to sustaining ongoing operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements and ensuring the protection of lives and property across the state.

Meanwhile, Governor Seyi Makinde has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security, welfare, and safety across Oyo State, noting that government is working closely with security agencies to secure abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area.

He also disclosed that a temporary 16-hour curfew had been imposed in 10 local government areas bordering the Old Oyo National Park to support ongoing security operations and enhance rescue efforts.

Makinde further stated that preparations are underway to ensure the safe resumption of schools despite prevailing security concerns, adding that the government remains focused on protecting students, teachers, and host communities.

In addition, the governor revealed that Oyo State will soon take delivery of its surveillance aircraft, explaining that final technical and regulatory procedures were delaying its deployment, but assuring that it will become operational upon completion.