Police arrest suspect, launch rescue operation for kidnapped Oyo farmer

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Oyo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its efforts to rescue a 20-year-old farmer abducted by armed men in Oke-Ogun area of the state, following the arrest of a suspected member of the kidnapping gang.

Police authorities said the suspect, identified as Yahaya Auta, 23, was apprehended during a coordinated security operation launched after the abduction of Michael Benua, a farmer and cattle rearer from Igboti community in Okutalogun area.

The victim was reportedly kidnapped in the early hours of June 19 when about eight armed men stormed Igboti Village, wielding firearms and cutlasses.

According to the police, the attackers abducted Benua and took him to an unknown location after allegedly carting away ₦1.24 million and 50,000 CFA from the community.

The incident was reported to the Okaka Police Division at about 9 a.m. on the same day, prompting an immediate security response.

Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, ordered a comprehensive manhunt involving operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, personnel of the Amotekun Corps and local hunters.

The joint security team subsequently launched extensive search operations across surrounding forests and adjoining communities in a bid to rescue the victim and track down the kidnappers.

The police said preliminary investigations, including a forensic examination of the crime scene and intensive combing of nearby bushes, led to the arrest of Auta, whose alleged involvement in the abduction was established.

According to the Command, the suspect confessed during interrogation to being a member of the gang and is currently assisting investigators with information aimed at tracking down other fleeing suspects and rescuing the victim.

The Command disclosed that its Anti-Kidnapping Squad has since reinforced ongoing operations as search-and-rescue efforts continue.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command assured residents that the case is being treated with the utmost urgency and seriousness.

Police authorities urged members of the public to remain calm and continue providing credible information that could assist security agencies in combating criminal activities.

The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property across Oyo State, stressing that no effort would be spared in ensuring the safe return of the abducted victim and bringing all members of the criminal syndicate to justice.

The arrested suspect remains in police custody while investigations and rescue operations continue.