The police command in Osun has arrested three suspected criminals who ambushed passengers along Ibadan/Akure expressway in Ikire on Saturday.

Osun State police spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, in a press statement, explained that gunmen attacked the travellers on Saturday and robbed them of their properties.

Ms. Opalola, however, said the police responded promptly to the situation and opened fire on the criminals which led to the arrest of three suspects. The passengers were also rescued safely, she said.

“A gang of criminals/hoodlums intercepted and attacked a Toyota Previa commercial Bus with Reg. Ondo KTP 331 RG plying Ibadan/Akure expressway by Egbu Village Ikire, in which unsuspecting  commuters were eventually dispossessed of their valuables and the driver and one other abducted,” Ms. Opalola said.

“The Police in prompt response, engaged the criminals in firefight which led to the arrest of three (3) suspects, and the rescue of other commuters safely to Ikire Police Division.”

The spokesperson further explained upon being briefed on the incident, the Osun police commissioner, Olawale Olokode, ordered swift deployment of operatives in trail of the kidnappers and their victims.

“The Commissioner of Police, Olawale Olokode immediately summoned a strong reinforcement of Police Tactical units, JTF, local hunters, and vigilantes with the police teams on ground, to embark on search/rescue operation; combing the bush for the two missing persons, and possible arrest of all other fleeing criminals,” she said.

Osun State has of late seen near-daily attacks during the busy morning commute, targeting travellers. On Tuesday seven commuters were abducted by kidnappers but they were later rescued by the people.

People Gazette reported that the seven victims were rescued by the police with the joint efforts of other security operatives on Saturday.

The police command had also promised that kidnapping will not reoccur in the state.