The Oyo State Police Command has rescued two kidnapped victims and neutralised one suspected kidnapper during a coordinated security operation in Gbonkan, Oorelope Local Government Area of the state.
The operation followed the abduction of three men by armed assailants at Gaa Alhaji, Gbonkan, via Ipapo, on June 29, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the incident occurred at about 8:30 p.m. when armed men suspected to be kidnappers stormed the camp of Alhaji Gbonkan, firing sporadically before abducting three adult males identified as Alhaji Usman Abubakar, Aliu Usman and Saliu Abubakar.
Upon receiving the distress report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ipapo Division to lead a joint rescue operation involving the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), and local hunters.
The Command said the security team immediately processed the crime scene, conducted forensic examinations, and utilised intelligence and recovered evidence to track the kidnappers through nearby forests and adjoining communities.
The operation eventually led security operatives to the kidnappers’ hideout deep inside the forest, where the suspects reportedly opened fire on the advancing team, triggering a fierce gun battle.
During the exchange, one suspected kidnapper was neutralised, while other gang members escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot wounds. One operative of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria sustained injuries during the encounter and is receiving medical treatment.
Police said the sustained offensive resulted in the successful rescue of two of the abducted victims. One of the victims suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot injury and was taken to a medical facility for treatment, while the second victim also received medical attention after the traumatic ordeal.
The Command disclosed that the third victim became separated from the others after reportedly fleeing in a different direction during the gun battle and is believed to be safe. Search efforts are ongoing to locate and reunite him with his family.
Meanwhile, security operatives have intensified the manhunt for the fleeing suspects, with the Police expressing confidence that those responsible for the crime will be arrested and prosecuted.
Commending the joint efforts of all participating security agencies, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga praised the professionalism, courage and resilience displayed by officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, the Vigilante Group of Nigeria and local hunters.
He assured residents that the operation would continue until the remaining victim is safely located and every member of the criminal gang is apprehended.
The Commissioner also urged residents of Ipapo, Gbonkan and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and support ongoing security operations by providing credible and timely information, particularly regarding individuals with suspicious gunshot wounds or unusual injuries seeking medical attention.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and ensuring that all those involved in the kidnapping are brought to justice.
