Police foil kidnapping bid, rescue victim, intercept suspected explosives

Nigerian police

By Oluseye Ojo

 

The Oyo State Police Command has foiled a kidnapping bid, rescued a kidnapped victim, and intercepted a truck carrying suspected explosive materials in separate operations.

The kidnapping incident occurred on January 24, 2026, at around 2:10 am, when armed suspects invaded a residence in Ojongbodu Area, Oyo State, and abducted Haruna Lawal.

The Police Public Relations Officer for the state, Ayanlade Olayinka, who confirmed the incidents, stated that the prompt response and aggressive bush-combing operation exerted pressure on the suspects.

“As police operatives advanced into the area with patrol vans and sirens, the kidnappers, realising that security forces were closing in on them, abandoned the victim and fled,” Olayinka said.

He added that the victim, who sustained a head injury, has been receiving medical attention at the General Hospital, Oyo.

In a separate operation, police operatives intercepted a truck carrying suspected explosive materials in Saki, Oyo State.

“The truck and the suspected materials were promptly secured and are currently in police custody.

“The driver of the truck has been taken into custody and is cooperating fully with investigators,” Olayinka said.

The suspected explosive materials, as gathered, are undergoing forensic analysis, and investigations are ongoing to determine their intended use.

Commissioner of Police in the state, Femi Haruna, commended the efforts of the police operatives, saying: “The swift rescue, achieved within hours of the abduction, underscores the professionalism, vigilance, and dedication of the Oyo State Police Command in responding decisively to threats against public safety.

Meanwhile, the command has reassured the public of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging citizens to remain calm and provide timely information to aid investigations.

 

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