The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed a deadly clash in Otu, located in the Oke Ogun axis of the state, where three suspected kidnappers were killed and a kidnapped victim was rescued during a coordinated security operation.
According to a statement released on Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the operation was carried out jointly by police officers, local hunters, and other security operatives following a distress call received on May 25, 2026.
The alert reportedly came from local hunters who were attacked by armed suspects while on a hunting expedition in the area. Fortunately, no casualties were recorded during that initial encounter.
In response, a combined team of security personnel was quickly mobilised to the scene. However, upon arrival, the suspected kidnappers opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire.
The security team eventually overpowered the attackers through coordinated action, leading to the neutralisation of three suspects.
During the operation, a kidnapped victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, a man believed to be about 50 years old, was rescued. He was said to have been abducted earlier in Okaka and held captive in the Otu area. He sustained gunshot injuries during the rescue and was taken to a medical facility for treatment.
One of the local hunters involved in the operation also suffered injuries and is currently receiving care in the hospital.
Items recovered from the scene included an AK 47 rifle without ammunition, a single barrel gun, and a machete.
The State Commissioner of Police praised the courage and swift response of the security teams and local hunters who took part in the operation.
The command also restated its commitment to sustained crackdowns on criminal groups across Oyo State while urging residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely information to security agencies.
