A joint security operation involving the Oyo State Police Command, the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and hunters has successfully rescued a couple who were kidnapped by suspected gunmen in the Oke-Ogun axis of Oyo State.
The victims, identified as Alhaji Busiru Booni and his wife, Alhaja Pitiku, regained their freedom unhurt after security operatives engaged the kidnappers in a fierce exchange of gunfire inside a forest where they were being held captive.
The couple was reportedly abducted on the night of Saturday, July 5, 2026, when about five armed men invaded Tiro Village in Irawo, shooting sporadically to create panic before taking the victims to an undisclosed location.
The Oyo State Police Command disclosed that immediately the incident was reported, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed the launch of a coordinated search-and-rescue mission involving multiple security agencies and community-based security groups.
The operation was carried out with the support of the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and hunters, who worked together to track down the kidnappers.
Security operatives recorded an early breakthrough after recovering a Bajaj motorcycle that had earlier been reported stolen and abandoned inside a nearby bush.
According to the police, the discovery of the motorcycle, coupled with the deployment of technological resources, helped investigators trace the location of the kidnappers’ hideout deep inside the forest.
“Upon sighting the advancing joint security operatives, the kidnappers opened fire, resulting in a fierce gun duel.”
“However, owing to the dense forest terrain and the difficult surrounding environment, the hoodlums escaped into the bush with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, abandoning the victims in the process,” the Command stated.
Following the successful rescue, the victims were immediately taken to a medical facility where they underwent medical examination and received treatment.
The police confirmed that after doctors certified them medically fit and in stable condition, the couple was discharged and reunited with members of their family.
In its reaction to the operation, the Oyo State Police Command appealed to residents to support ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects by reporting anyone seeking suspicious medical treatment, especially for gunshot wounds.
“Members of the public should remain vigilant and report any person seeking unusual medical attention or presenting with suspected bullet wounds to the nearest police station or security post.”
“Such timely information will assist ongoing efforts to apprehend the fleeing criminals and prevent further criminal activities,” the Command said.
The Police also commended the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, hunters and members of the affected community for their cooperation and timely intelligence, describing their contribution as critical to the success of the rescue mission.
“The Oyo State Police Command appreciates the invaluable support and collaboration of the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, hunters, and members of the community whose timely information and cooperation contributed significantly to the successful rescue operation,” the command added.
Reassuring residents of its commitment to maintaining security across the state, the Command said it would continue to strengthen efforts aimed at protecting lives and property while pursuing criminal elements responsible for violent crimes.
“The Command reassures residents of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the State and urges members of the public to continue providing credible and timely information that will aid ongoing efforts to rid the State of criminal elements,” the command concluded.
