- Safiu Kehinde
The Oyo State Police Command has foiled a kidnapping operation in Budo, Iseyin.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka.
According to the statement, a group of armed hoodlums numbering about five and armed with guns and cutlasses had on Sunday invaded Budo via Bassi Camp in Iseyin and abducted 60-year-old Isiaku Saidu.
Operatives attached to the Oyo Police Command would in response storm the suspects hideout in a bush-combing operations done in partnership with other security agencies.
“Upon receipt of this information, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, directed that everything must be done to rescue the victim and apprehend those responsible.
“Premised on this directive, the Divisional Police Officer, Ago-Are, in joint operation with partner agencies, embarked on aggressive patrols and bush-combing operations, which led to the discovery of the hideout of the suspected kidnappers.
“Upon sighting the combined team, the suspects opened fire, engaging the operatives in a gun duel. This confrontation resulted in the neutralization of one suspect, while another was arrested and is currently cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
“The remaining suspects fled the scene with bullet wounds. Members of the public are urged to alert the police if anyone with bullet injuries is seen in and around the area.” Ayanlade wrote.
In the same vein, the Command’s vigilance extended to Komu, where one Hussinat Abubakar was abducted at Gelede Camp.
The Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, directed that no stone should be left unturned to ensure her safe rescue and reunification with her family.
Acting on this directive, the Divisional Police Officer, Komu, in collaboration with partner agencies, embarked on rigorous and aggressive bush-combing operations.
These efforts led to the rescue of the kidnapped victim and the arrest of three suspects.
The suspects identified as Kari Ibrahim, male, 22 years; Dure Jimoh, male, 25 years; and Abubakar Sidi, male, 55 years reportedly confessed to their involvement in the crime.
Investigations continue to apprehend the remaining members of the syndicate.
The victim is receiving treatment and all necessary support at the hospital, while the suspects will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation.
Additionally, six expended cartridges were recovered at the scene. This operation highlights the Command’s determination to secure victims of crime promptly and prevents ransom payments that embolden criminals.
The Oyo Command further recounted other successful operations embarked on by its operatives in the past week which included the arrest of a suspected killer of a student at Michael Adeniyi Koleoso Polytechnic. Saki, as well as the arrest of a hunter who accidentally killed his colleague.
“Building on the momentum of these successes, the Command promptly responded to a distress call on 7th January 2026, at about 1430 hours, reporting a fight among students of Michael Adeniyi Koleoso Polytechnic, Saki, at Challenge 1 Area, behind the school.
“During the altercation, one student sustained a gunshot wound to the back and was rushed to Tunmise Private Hospital, Saki, where the victim later succumbed to the injury.
“One expended cartridge was recovered at the scene. Olatunji David Segun, male, has been arrested in connection with the incident.
“Further investigations have commenced to determine the circumstances and motive behind the crime. This operation demonstrates the Command’s ability to respond swiftly to violent crimes and restore order in sensitive environments.
“Later the same day, on 7th January 2026, at about 2120 hours, Waheed Rasaki, male, 35 years, of Oretan Ijaiye Area, Moniya, reported to Moniya Division that earlier on the same date, at about 1400 hours, he had mistakenly shot his colleague, Femi Oyedepom, male, during a hunting expedition at Oretan Ijaiye Forest.
“The victim slumped and died on the spot. Police operatives, led by the Divisional Police Officer, promptly visited the scene, discovered the lifeless body, and arrested the suspect, who is currently in police custody.
“Further investigations have commenced. This case underscores the Command’s prompt response to both criminal and accidental fatalities, ensuring accountability and justice.
“CP Femi Haruna commends all officers involved in these operations for their professionalism, courage, and swift action, which have led to the arrest of dangerous criminals, the neutralization of threats, and the safe rescue of kidnapped victims.
“The Commissioner also expresses his profound appreciation to Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, NPM, mni, for his leadership and guidance, as well as to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for his continuous support to the Oyo State Police Command.
“Members of the public are assured that the Oyo State Police remain fully committed to maintaining law and order, preventing crime, and bringing offenders to justice.
“Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, cooperate with the police, and report any suspicious activities to the nearest station to aid in safeguarding lives and property.” The statement read further.