Men of the Oyo state police command have rescued two children abducted by suspected bandits who invaded Ebinpejo Village, via Lanlate in Ibarapa East Local Government Area last Friday, June 26.
The police say the assailants ransacked houses, assaulted residents and abducted the two children.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police Oyo State Police Command CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, immediately directed the Divisional Police Officer, Lanlate, to mobilise operatives in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, local vigilante groups, and hunters to commence an intensive bush-combing operation aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending the perpetrators.
Acting on credible intelligence, supported by technical resources and coordinated field operations, the joint security team successfully traced the abductors’ hideout deep within the forest.
On sighting the advancing security team, the hoodlums opened fire, resulting in a gun duel. The operatives responded professionally, overpowering the criminals and forcing them to flee in different directions.
During the operation, one suspect, Umaru Usman (25), sustained gunshot wounds while attempting to escape and was apprehended. Three mobile phones were recovered at the scene.
In a follow-up operation conducted in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, another suspect, Abdullahi Ahmed (28), was arrested. He was found to have sustained gunshot wounds believed to have been inflicted during the exchange of fire with the joint security team. He was immediately taken to the hospital for treatment and remains in police custody.
Further investigations by the police led to the arrest of Sunday Idowu (30), identified as a local collaborator who allegedly provided logistical support to the criminal syndicate.Also arrested was one Muhammed Ibrahim Shina (29), who reportedly travelled from Ilorin, Kwara State, to participate in the abduction operation.
Confirming this to newsmen, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, spokesperson of the command, said the four suspects are currently assisting investigators with useful information aimed at identifying and apprehending other members of the criminal network.
He mentioned that the two abducted children were rescued safely and promptly taken for medical attention. One of the victims sustained injuries during the ordeal but received treatment before both children were successfully reunited with their family.
Olayinka added that investigation is ongoing, and further developments will be communicated as they unfold.