The Oyo State Police Command has successfully rescued two children who were abducted by suspected kidnappers, arrested four members of the gang, and recovered a cache of sophisticated firearms during separate intelligence-led operations carried out across the state.
In a statement released on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the first operation was launched after security agencies received a distress call reporting that armed criminals had invaded Ebinpejo Village via Lanlate in Ibarapa East Local Government Area, attacked residents, and abducted two children.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed an immediate rescue mission involving police personnel, the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, and hunters.
According to the statement, the joint security team relied on credible intelligence, technical support, and coordinated field operations to locate the kidnappers' hideout deep inside the forest.
Upon sighting the advancing security operatives, the suspects reportedly opened fire, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. The security team responded effectively, overpowering the criminals and forcing them to flee in different directions.
During the operation, one suspect identified as Umaru Usman, 25, sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to escape and was arrested. Security operatives also recovered three mobile phones from the scene.
The police disclosed that a follow-up operation carried out in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, 2026, led to the arrest of another suspect, Abdullahi Ahmed, 28. Investigators said he also had gunshot wounds believed to have been sustained during the earlier gun battle with security operatives. He was immediately taken to hospital for treatment and remains in police custody.
Further investigations resulted in the arrest of Sunday Idowu, 30, who was described as a local collaborator, and Muhammed Ibrahim Shina, 29, who allegedly travelled from Ilorin, Kwara State, to participate in the kidnapping operation.
According to the command, the four suspects are cooperating with investigators by providing useful information expected to assist in identifying and apprehending other members of the criminal network.
The police confirmed that the abducted children were rescued alive and reunited with their family after receiving medical attention.
"The two abducted children were rescued safely and immediately taken for medical treatment. One of the victims sustained injuries during the ordeal but was treated before both children were reunited with their family," the statement said.
Firearms Recovered in Separate Operation
In another intelligence-led operation targeting an armed robbery syndicate, operatives of the Command's Violent Crime Response Unit acted on information indicating that a wanted robbery kingpin was hiding in the Ajah area of Lagos State with members of his gang.
According to the police, intelligence reports revealed that the suspect, believed to be in possession of an English-made pistol, was staying with members of his criminal syndicate.
Although the suspects escaped before they could be apprehended, a thorough search of their hideout led to the recovery of several dangerous weapons.
Items recovered include:
Two Russian-made JOJEFF double-barrel guns with serial numbers T3586 and 0217/2011
One Magnum pump-action rifle with serial number S&W357
One English-made revolver pistol
Thirty-six live cartridges
The police said efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects.
According to the command, the recovery of the sophisticated firearms highlights the dangerous capacity of the criminal syndicate and reflects the police's determination to prevent violent crimes and dismantle organised criminal groups.
The Oyo State Police Command stated that the successful operations demonstrate its commitment to intelligence-driven policing, rapid response, and effective collaboration with other security agencies.
The command also commended the Amotekun Corps, local vigilante groups, hunters, and members of the public for their support and cooperation, noting that their contributions were instrumental to the success of both operations.
Investigations are still ongoing, while all arrested suspects will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations, the statement added.
ADEOLA KUNLE
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