Police Rescue Abducted Couple After Gun Battle with Kidnappers in Oyo

The Oyo State Police Command has rescued two persons abducted by suspected kidnappers in Tiro Village, Irawo, Oke-Ogun, following a coordinated security operation involving multiple agencies.

The victims, Alhaji Busiru Booni and his wife, Alhaja Pitiku, were kidnapped on the night of Saturday, July 5, 2026, after about five armed men stormed the community, fired several gunshots into the air and whisked them away to an unknown location.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the command said the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji, immediately ordered a joint search-and-rescue operation involving police operatives, the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and hunters.

During the operation, security operatives recovered a Bajaj motorcycle earlier reported stolen and abandoned in a nearby bush. The motorcycle, alongside the use of technology, helped the joint team trace the kidnappers’ hideout.

According to the police, the suspects opened fire on the approaching security team, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. However, the kidnappers fled into the surrounding forest with suspected gunshot wounds, abandoning their captives.

The victims were rescued unharmed, taken to a medical facility for evaluation and treatment, and later discharged after being certified to be in stable condition. They have since reunited with their family.

The police have appealed to members of the public to report anyone seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot injuries or presenting unusual medical conditions, saying such information could help security agencies apprehend the fleeing suspects.

The command also commended the Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes, hunters and members of the community for their cooperation and timely intelligence, which contributed to the successful rescue operation.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, the Oyo State Police Command urged residents to continue providing credible and timely information to support ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.