The Oyo State Police Command has apprehended a suspected kidnapper following the abduction of a 20-year-old farmer and cattle rearer, as security operatives intensify efforts to rescue the victim and track down other members of the gang.
Vanguard reported that the arrest was made through a series of coordinated security operations launched after the incident was reported at the Okaka Police Division.
Police investigations revealed that the kidnapping took place in the early hours of June 19, 2026, when about eight armed men stormed Igboti Village through the Okutalogun axis at approximately 1:00 a.m.
The assailants, reportedly armed with guns and cutlasses, abducted Michael Benua and took him to an unknown destination. During the attack, they allegedly carted away N1.24 million and 50,000 CFA.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed that prompt action by security personnel resulted in the arrest of one of the suspects connected to the crime.
“The Command confirms that swift and coordinated operational measures undertaken following the report have yielded significant progress, resulting in the arrest of one suspect linked to the incident,” he said.
Ayanlade noted that investigations remain ongoing, adding that intelligence-driven operations have been strengthened to facilitate the victim’s rescue and ensure the arrest of other fleeing gang members.
In response to the abduction, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed the immediate deployment of a joint team comprising officers from the Okaka Police Formation, operatives of the Amotekun Corps, and local hunters.
The security team subsequently carried out extensive search operations across nearby forests and neighbouring communities in a bid to locate the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.
According to the police, preliminary findings from forensic analysis and bush-combing operations led to the arrest of a 23-year-old suspect identified as Yahaya Auta.
Investigators said the suspect admitted his involvement in the criminal gang and is currently assisting authorities with information aimed at rescuing the victim and arresting the remaining members of the syndicate.
The Command further disclosed that its Anti-Kidnapping Squad has stepped up operations in the affected area while search-and-rescue efforts continue.
Residents were encouraged to remain calm and continue providing security agencies with useful and timely information.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains resolute and fully committed to protecting lives and property across the state,” the statement added.
