Police Arrest Suspected Kidnapper, Recover AK-47 in Oyo

The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspected notorious kidnapper and recovered an AK-47 rifle during an intelligence-driven operation.

According to the police, the breakthrough followed a tip-off from a concerned resident who reported the presence of three armed men operating around forests and farmlands in the Ikoyi-Ile area.

Acting on the information, a joint security team led by the Divisional Police Officer of Ikoyi-Ile Division carried out a search of the surrounding bushes, leading to the arrest of one suspect, identified as Muhammadu Abubakar.

Items recovered from the suspect include an AK-47 rifle (breach number 6628/2274), six rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition, and three cartridges.

Police authorities described the arrest as a significant step in the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in multiple kidnapping operations along the Ogbomoso–Ikoyi-Ile corridor. He is also believed to have connections with criminal networks operating across state borders and had previously been on the police watchlist.

The Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, has ordered the transfer of the suspect to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

Meanwhile, security operatives have launched a manhunt for other members of the gang who are still at large.

The police boss commended the officers involved in the operation, noting that intelligence-led policing remains crucial in tackling crime. He also acknowledged the support of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for strengthening operational effectiveness.

The Command urged members of the public to continue providing timely and reliable information to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation is vital in combating crime.

Police also reassured residents of their commitment to protecting lives and property, adding that efforts are ongoing to track down fleeing suspects and dismantle criminal networks in the state.