The Oyo State Police Command has announced the re-arrest of a suspected kidnapper who previously escaped from police custody, an incident that had sparked protests within the community.
The suspect, identified as Ayomide Kareem, aged 25, was apprehended on March 17, 2026, during a routine stop-and-search operation by operatives attached to the Ojongbodu Area Command.
According to the police, “The suspect was intercepted at Irepo Junction and, upon questioning, was confirmed to be the same individual who escaped from custody on March 10.”
The command stated that the suspect is currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
Following the earlier escape, the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, ordered a manhunt for the suspect and disciplinary action against officers involved.
“The officers responsible for the lapse have been detained and are undergoing orderly room trial for unprofessional conduct,” the statement said.
The police also confirmed that administrative actions, including the redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Jobele Division, have been taken to strengthen accountability.
The command urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies with useful information.
“We remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property and will not relent in bringing offenders to justice,” the statement added.
