The Oyo State Police Command has rescued a 15-year-old boy abducted in Akinyele Local Government Area and launched a manhunt for fleeing members of the suspected kidnap gang, some of whom reportedly sustained gunshot wounds during a shootout with security operatives.
One suspected kidnapper was killed during the operation along the Awe–Iwo Road axis, while the police recovered an Android mobile phone and a cutlass.
The rescued victim, identified as Sumaila Muhammadu, was abducted from the Onidundun area of Akinyele on October 18, according to a statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, on Sunday.
The police said the operation followed intelligence received on October 22 indicating that the kidnappers were demanding ransom for the teenager’s release.
The Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, subsequently directed operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Section, working with the Oyo Zone Vigilante Group of Nigeria, to track the suspects and secure the victim’s release.
The security team advanced on the suspects’ location around the Pipeline and Ajagba axis along the Awe–Iwo Road.
According to the police, the operation resulted in a gun battle at about 9.30pm after the suspected kidnappers opened fire on the advancing operatives.
The officers rescued the teenager during the encounter, while one suspected kidnapper was neutralised. Other gang members escaped in different directions, reportedly with gunshot injuries.
The police said the injured suspect was taken to a hospital, where a doctor confirmed him dead. His body was subsequently deposited in a morgue.
The command urged residents of the Awe–Iwo Road axis and neighbouring communities to report anyone with suspicious gunshot wounds to the police, saying such information could help track down the fleeing suspects.
It also called on medical practitioners, hospital administrators and other healthcare workers to promptly alert the police to anyone seeking treatment for gunshot injuries suspected to be connected with the incident.
The command said reports could be made at the nearest police station or through its established communication channels.
It reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led policing and collaboration with other security stakeholders to dismantle criminal networks and curb kidnapping in the state.
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