The Oyo State Police Command has rescued two kidnapped victims following a coordinated joint security operation in Oorelope Local Government Area. The operation, which involved the Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps, Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), and local hunters, also resulted in the neutralisation of one suspected kidnapper.
Kidnapping Incident at Gaa Alhaji
The incident occurred on Monday, June 29, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m., when armed men suspected to be kidnappers invaded the camp of Alhaji Gbonkan at Gaa Alhaji, Gbonkan, via Ipapo. The assailants fired sporadically to instil fear before abducting three adult males identified as Alhaji Usman Abubakar, Aliu Usman, and Saliu Abubakar.
Upon receipt of the distress report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ipapo Division to coordinate a robust joint security operation. The operation was specifically aimed at rescuing the abducted victims, apprehending the perpetrators, and restoring normalcy to the affected community.
Joint Security Operation and Rescue
Responding swiftly, the joint security team mobilised to the scene and commenced a coordinated search-and-rescue operation. The crime scene was professionally processed through a forensic sweep, during which relevant evidence and exhibits were identified, documented, and secured for investigative purposes. Leveraging available technology, actionable intelligence, and evidence recovered from the scene, the team strategically combed the surrounding forests and adjoining communities in a sustained pursuit of the fleeing suspects.
The intensive operation eventually led security operatives to the kidnappers' hideout deep within the forest. Upon sighting the advancing security team, the hoodlums opened fire in a desperate attempt to evade arrest, resulting in a fierce gun duel. In the ensuing exchange, one of the suspected abductors was neutralised, while other members of the gang fled into the forest with suspected gunshot wounds. One operative of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) sustained injuries during the encounter and is currently responding to medical treatment.
Victims Rescued, Search for Third Continues
The sustained offensive yielded positive results as two of the abducted victims were successfully rescued. One of the rescued victims sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot injury and was promptly evacuated to a medical facility for treatment, while the second victim also received medical attention following the traumatic ordeal. The third victim, who became separated from the others after reportedly running in a different direction during the exchange of gunfire, is believed to be safe. Intensive search efforts are ongoing to locate and reunite him with his family.
Security operatives have continued to exploit actionable intelligence and maintain pressure on the fleeing suspects with a view to ensuring their arrest and prosecution. The Command remains confident that the criminals will be apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law.
Police Commissioner Commends Joint Efforts
CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga commended the courage, professionalism, resilience, and seamless collaboration exhibited by officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), and local hunters whose collective efforts contributed immensely to the success recorded so far. He further assures residents that the operation will remain active until the remaining victim is safely located and every member of the criminal gang responsible for the attack is apprehended and brought to justice.
The Command appeals to residents of Ipapo, Gbonkan and adjoining communities to remain calm, vigilant, and continue to support ongoing security operations by providing credible and timely information. Members of the public are particularly urged to be on the lookout for individuals presenting with unusual or suspicious wounds, especially gunshot injuries, or persons seeking medical attention under suspicious circumstances. Such persons should be promptly reported to the nearest Police Station or any other security agency. The Command assures members of the public that all information received will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
