By Adeola Badru
Two persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in Gaa Alhaji, Gbonkan, via Ipapo, in Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, have been rescued by a joint security team following a coordinated operation that also led to the neutralisation of one suspected kidnapper.
The Oyo State Police Command disclosed that the rescue followed a sustained search-and-rescue operation involving officers of the Nigeria Police Force, operatives of the Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), and local hunters.
The victims were abducted on Monday, June 29, at about 8.30 p.m. when armed men stormed Alhaji Gbonkan’s camp at Gaa Alhaji, firing sporadically before whisking away three adult males identified as Alhaji Usman Abubakar, Aliu Usman and Saliu Abubakar.
According to the Police, the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbenga, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer in Ipapo to lead a joint operation aimed at rescuing the victims, apprehending the suspects and restoring normalcy to the affected community.
Security operatives subsequently conducted a forensic examination of the crime scene and utilised intelligence gathered from the area to launch an extensive manhunt across surrounding forests and neighbouring communities.
The operation eventually led the joint security team to the kidnappers’ hideout deep inside the forest, where the suspects reportedly engaged security operatives in a gun battle.
During the exchange of fire, one suspected kidnapper was neutralised, while other members of the gang escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
A member of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria sustained injuries during the operation and is receiving medical treatment.
The Police said two of the abducted victims were rescued during the operation. One sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound and was taken to hospital for treatment, while the second victim also received medical attention following the ordeal.
The third victim reportedly became separated from the others after fleeing in a different direction during the gun battle.
Police said ongoing search efforts indicate that he is believed to be safe and that intensive efforts are underway to locate and reunite him with his family.
The Command added that security operatives have continued to intensify the manhunt for the fleeing suspects with the aim of ensuring their arrest and prosecution.
Olugbenga reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling violent crime across the state.
“Our resolve to protect the lives and property of the people of Oyo State remains unwavering. This operation demonstrates our determination to dismantle criminal networks and ensure that those responsible for violent crimes are brought to justice,” he said.
The Commissioner commended the professionalism and collaboration of the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and local hunters, describing their joint efforts as instrumental to the success of the operation.
“We will sustain the operation until the remaining victim is safely reunited with his family and every member of the criminal gang responsible for this attack is apprehended,” he added.
The Police also appealed to residents of Ipapo, Gbonkan and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and support ongoing security operations by providing credible information.
The Command, however, urged members of the public to report individuals with suspicious gunshot wounds or persons seeking medical attention under unusual circumstances, assuring residents that all information received would be treated in strict confidence.
