The police command in Oyo state says it killed three suspected kidnappers and rescued a hostage.

The command’s spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed this in a statement issued in Ibadan on Tuesday. He said the command recorded the success during a coordinated security operation conducted at Otu in the Oke-Ogun axis.

The command stated that the operation was in collaboration with local hunters and other security agencies as part of ongoing efforts to rid Oyo state of criminals.

“The operation was initiated following a distress call received on Monday from local hunters who had gone on a hunting expedition in Otu and came under gunfire attack by suspected kidnappers. Fortunately, no casualty was recorded among the hunters.

“Acting swiftly on the intelligence received, a response team, comprising police operatives, local hunters, and other security agencies, was immediately mobilised to the scene at Otu. Upon arrival, the hoodlums opened fire and engaged the security team in a gun duel.

“However, through superior tactical response and coordinated effort, the criminals were successfully overpowered, leading to the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers. 

“Consequently, the operation also resulted in the successful rescue of an abducted victim, identified as Mr Mosudi Gbolagade, male, aged about 50 years. The victim had earlier been kidnapped at Okaka and held captive in the Otu area,” the police statement said.

The statement also disclosed that the victim sustained gunshot injuries during the incident but was quickly evacuated for urgent medical attention. He added that one of the local hunters also sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange and was promptly rushed to the hospital, where he is currently receiving medical care.

“In the course of the operation, security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrelled gun, and one machete from the scene, further underscoring the violent intent of the criminal elements,” the command said.