The police command in Oyo State has arrested three suspected kidnappers, recovered firearms and other criminals items in the Sogidi area of Ilora town.

A statement on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, said combined efforts by a concerned resident of the community,  vigilance group and police operatives aided the arrest of the criminal elements.

It stated, “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of the arrest of suspected kidnappers and the recovery of firearms and other incriminating items in Ilora, Sogidi area, as part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.

“A spirited Nigerian and member of the said community raised an alarm after observing a group of young individuals loitering suspiciously within the area. Acting promptly on the information, members of the local vigilance group accosted one of the individuals at the scene and immediately alerted the police.”

The command said the suspect who could not provide satisfactory response to immediate questions asked by members of the joint security team, suddenly abandoned a sack bag in his possession and fled into a nearby bush.

“The abandoned sack bag was immediately recovered and thoroughly searched, during which the following items were discovered: one (1) dismantled double-barrel gun, one (1) dismantled single-barrel gun, and six (6) live cartridges,” the statement noted.

The command said intensified follow-up operations led to a thorough search of a house and premises linked to a man, identified as Seriki Abdullahi Bello (68).

The command stated that two additional suspects, identified as Abdullahi Usman (18) and Aliu Ibrahim (33) were also arrested in connection with the incident.

“All suspects are currently in custody and have been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad (AKS) for discreet investigation aimed at uncovering the full extent of their involvement and apprehending other fleeing accomplices,” the police spokesman noted.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led policing, public safety and protection of lives and property, urging residents in the state to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with credible and timely information.