A suspected kidnapper has been apprehended by the Oyo State Police Command while attempting to collect a ₦10 million ransom from the family of an abducted victim in Atiba Local Government Area.
The incident occurred in Otefon Village, where the suspect, identified as Mohammed Sanni, was arrested during a coordinated operation by the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria.
The victim, Alhaji Bagudu, had earlier been abducted from his residence in Ilowa Village on May 9, 2026, by a group of about six armed men.
He was subsequently taken into the Otefon forest, where the kidnappers demanded a ransom for his release.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Olayinka Ayanlade, the breakthrough came following credible intelligence that the kidnappers had assembled in the forest to receive the ransom.
Acting swiftly on the information, the Commissioner of Police, Olugbemiga Abimbola, deployed operatives to the location with clear instructions to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and apprehend the culprits.
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The police adopted a strategic approach that prioritized the victim’s safety. After confirming that Alhaji Bagudu had been released unharmed, security operatives advanced towards the ransom collection point.
Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects opened fire, leading to a gun duel. While others fled into the forest with suspected gunshot injuries, Mohammed Sanni was captured at the scene.
Items recovered during the operation include a motorcycle, a mobile phone, a pair of slippers, and a cap.
Authorities confirmed that these items are currently undergoing forensic analysis.
The police revealed that the arrested suspect has provided useful information, and efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the remaining members of the gang.
The command has urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance public safety and aid ongoing investigations.
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