Oyo Police Rescue 15-Year-Old Kidnapped Boy, Kill Suspected Kidnapper

The Oyo State Police Command has rescued a 15-year-old boy, identified as Sumaila Muhammadu, who was reportedly kidnapped from the Onidundun area of Akinyele Local Government Area on October 18, 2026. The rescue was carried out during a coordinated security operation following intelligence that suspected kidnappers were demanding ransom for the teenager’s release. According to the police, information about the incident was received on October 22, prompting the command to mobilise its anti-kidnapping operatives to locate the suspects and secure the victim’s freedom. The operation involved cooperation between the Anti-Kidnapping Section of the police and the Oyo Zone Vigilante Group of Nigeria.

The Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed the operatives to take action after receiving the intelligence report. The security team subsequently moved to the Pipeline area of the Ajagba axis along the Awe–Iwo Road, where the suspected kidnappers were believed to be holding the victim. The operation took place at approximately 9:30 p.m. on October 22. Police said the mission was aimed at rescuing the teenager and apprehending those responsible for his abduction, as the command intensified efforts to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.

According to the police account, a gun battle broke out when the suspected kidnappers opened fire after noticing the approaching security operatives. Despite the exchange of gunfire, the officers successfully rescued the 15-year-old boy. One suspected kidnapper was neutralised during the confrontation, while other members of the gang reportedly escaped in different directions with possible gunshot injuries. The police said the injured suspect was taken to a hospital, where a doctor confirmed his death, after which his remains were deposited at a morgue. The identity of the deceased suspect had not been disclosed in the police statement available at the time of reporting.

The security team also recovered an Android mobile phone and a cutlass during the operation. Police said the recovered items would form part of the ongoing investigation as efforts continued to identify and apprehend the fleeing suspects. The command has urged residents living around the Awe–Iwo Road axis and neighbouring communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. It specifically appealed to members of the public to notify the police about individuals who may be seeking treatment for suspicious gunshot wounds, as some of the fleeing suspects may have been injured during the confrontation. Medical practitioners, hospital administrators and other healthcare workers were also encouraged to alert the authorities when they encounter cases that may be connected to the incident.

The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating kidnapping through intelligence-led operations and cooperation with relevant security stakeholders. The rescue highlights the role of timely information and collaboration between formal security agencies and local vigilante groups in responding to kidnapping incidents. However, the operation has not yet resulted in the reported arrest of all members of the suspected gang, and the police are continuing efforts to track down those who escaped. Residents have been encouraged to provide credible information through the nearest police station or the command’s established communication channels. The investigation remains ongoing, and further developments are expected as authorities work to bring the remaining suspects to justice.