The Oyo State Police Command has rescued a 15-year-old boy abducted in Akinyele Local Government Area and neutralised a suspected kidnapper during a gun duel along the Awe–Iwo Road axis.
Police said the operation also triggered a manhunt for other members of the gang who reportedly escaped with gunshot injuries.
The victim, identified as Sumaila Muhammadu, was abducted from the Onidundun area of Akinyele on October 18, 2026.
According to the command, credible intelligence received on October 22 indicated that the kidnappers were demanding ransom for the teenager’s release.
The information prompted the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, to direct operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Section to move against the suspects.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with the Oyo Zone Vigilante Group of Nigeria, with operatives tracking the suspects to the Pipeline area of the Ajagba axis along the Awe–Iwo Road.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said a gun duel broke out at about 9:30 p.m. after the suspected kidnappers opened fire when they sighted the advancing security team.
Despite the attack, the operatives rescued Muhammadu during the exchange of gunfire.
One suspected kidnapper was also shot during the encounter.
Police said he was taken to a hospital, where a medical doctor confirmed him dead. His remains were subsequently deposited at a morgue.
Other members of the gang reportedly fled in different directions, with the police suspecting that some sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation.
Operatives recovered an Android mobile phone and a cutlass from the scene.
The items, according to the command, would form part of the ongoing investigation.
Police have consequently intensified efforts to locate the fleeing suspects and appealed to residents around the Awe–Iwo Road corridor and adjoining communities to remain vigilant.
The command specifically urged residents to report anyone seen with suspicious gunshot wounds, noting that such information could help investigators track down members of the gang.
Medical practitioners, hospital administrators and other healthcare workers were also asked to promptly alert the police if individuals suspected of being connected to the incident seek treatment for gunshot injuries.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to using intelligence-led operations and collaboration with other security stakeholders to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes in Oyo State.
It also urged residents to provide timely and credible information to assist security agencies in apprehending the fleeing suspects.
