By our Reporter
The Oyo State Police Command has recorded two major operational breakthroughs with the rescue of two abducted children, the arrest of four suspected kidnappers, and the recovery of sophisticated firearms linked to an armed robbery syndicate.
The Command disclosed that the operations underscored its commitment to combating violent crime through intelligence-led policing and collaboration with other security agencies.
According to the Police, the first operation followed a distress report on Friday, June 27, 2026, that armed men invaded Ebinpejo Village via Lanlate in Ibarapa East Local Government Area, where they ransacked homes, assaulted residents and abducted two children.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer in Lanlate to mobilise operatives in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, local vigilante groups and hunters for an intensive bush-combing operation.
The joint security team, acting on credible intelligence and supported by technical resources, traced the kidnappers’ hideout deep inside a forest. The suspects reportedly opened fire on sighting the operatives, leading to a gun battle. The security team overpowered the criminals, forcing them to flee.
One suspect, identified as Umaru Usman, 25, who sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to escape, was arrested at the scene, while three mobile phones were recovered.
In a follow-up operation on Saturday, June 28, another suspect, Abdullahi Ahmed, 28, who also sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire, was arrested and taken to hospital for treatment before being placed in police custody.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Sunday Idowu, 30, alleged to be a local collaborator who provided logistical support to the gang, while Muhammed Ibrahim Shina, 29, was also apprehended after reportedly travelling from Ilorin, Kwara State, to participate in the abduction.
The Police said the four suspects are assisting investigators with information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal network.
The abducted children were rescued unharmed and taken for medical attention. One of the victims, who sustained injuries during the ordeal, was treated before both children were reunited with their family.
In a separate operation, operatives of the Command’s Violent Crime Response Unit recovered a cache of sophisticated firearms linked to a wanted armed robbery syndicate.
The operation, carried out on June 27 as a follow-up to an earlier investigation, was based on intelligence indicating that a wanted robbery kingpin was hiding in the Ajah area of Lagos State with members of his gang.
Although the suspects escaped upon sighting the operatives, a search of their hideout led to the recovery of two Russian-made JOJEFF double-barrel guns, one Magnum pump-action rifle, one English-made revolver pistol and 36 live cartridges.
The Police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, noting that the recovery of the weapons demonstrated the dangerous capability of the criminal network while preventing potential violent crimes.
The Command commended the support of the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, hunters and members of the public whose cooperation contributed to the successful operations.
It also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his leadership and continued support, which it said had strengthened policing operations nationwide.
The Oyo State Police Command reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing credible information to security agencies.
Police said investigations into both cases are ongoing, adding that all suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
