Police rescue 15-year-old kidnap victim, kill suspect in Oyo gun battle

The Oyo State Police Command has rescued a 15-year-old boy kidnapped in Akinyele Local Government Area and neutralised a suspected kidnapper during a gun battle along the Awe–Iwo Road axis of the state.

The rescued victim, identified as Sumaila Muhammadu, was abducted from the Onidundun area of Akinyele LGA on October 18, 2026, while his abductors were reportedly demanding ransom for his release.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed this in a statement issued in Ibadan on Sunday, saying the operation followed credible intelligence received by the command on Thursday, October 22.

According to him, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, directed operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Section, in collaboration with the Oyo Zone Vigilante Group of Nigeria, to track down the suspects and secure the victim’s release.

Acting on the intelligence, the security team mobilised to the Pipeline, Ajagba axis along the Awe–Iwo Road, where the suspected kidnappers were believed to be operating.

Ayanlade said the operation led to a gun battle at about 9:30 p.m. after the suspects opened fire on the advancing operatives.

Despite the attack, the security team successfully rescued the teenager, while one suspected kidnapper was neutralised during the exchange of gunfire.

Other members of the gang reportedly fled in different directions with suspected gunshot injuries.

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The police spokesperson added that the neutralised suspect was taken to a hospital, where a medical doctor confirmed him dead. His remains were subsequently deposited in a morgue.

Items recovered during the operation included an Android mobile phone and a cutlass, which the police said would form part of the ongoing investigation.

The command reiterated its commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes through intelligence-led policing and collaboration with local security groups.

It also urged residents of the Awe–Iwo Road axis and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and report anyone suspected of having gunshot wounds.

“Such timely information could prove crucial to locating the fleeing suspects and preventing further criminal activities,” the statement said.

The police further called on medical practitioners, hospital administrators and other healthcare workers to promptly report anyone seeking treatment for gunshot injuries suspected to be connected with the incident.

The command urged members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in tracking down the fleeing suspects and strengthening security across the state.