Police rescue abducted passengers on Igbeti-Kishi road, launch manhunt for suspects

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Oyo State Police Command has announced the successful rescue of four passengers kidnapped on Thursday along the Igbeti-Kishi Road, crediting a rapid joint operation with local security teams.

According to a statement issued Friday by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, Police Public Relations Officer for the command, armed hoodlums had blocked the road and intercepted a commercial bus traveling from Igbeti to Kishi.

“Four passengers were forcefully taken into the surrounding bush by the assailants,” the statement detailed.

Upon receiving the report, Commissioner of Police CP Femi Haruna directed officers from the Igbeti and Kishi divisions, along with tactical teams, to mobilise.

A combined force including police, Amotekun Corps, Operation Burst, and local stakeholders combed the forests for hours, pressuring the suspects to flee and abandon their captives.

“Consequently, the four victims were successfully rescued unhurt, have regained their freedom, and have since been reunited with their families,” DSP Olayinka stated.

CP Haruna praised the team’s efforts, noting that “synergy and cooperation among security agencies remain vital to the protection of lives and property across the state.”.

He also thanked Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for logistical support and Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu for national guidance.

Police operations continue, with intensive bush combing and intelligence efforts underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects, the statement noted.

The command thereby urged the public to stay vigilant and share timely information.