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The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a police inspector during a rescue operation to free a kidnapped victim in Oyo West Local Government Area of the state.
The tragic incident occurred at Olorunda Village, Ojongbodu, in the early hours of Friday, January 24, 2026, when armed suspected kidnappers invaded a residence and abducted a man identified as Haruna Lawal.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Olayinka Ayanlade, disclosed that the assailants escaped with the victim’s motorcycle before security operatives moved in.
Swift Police Response
According to the statement, the police received a distress call at about 2:10 a.m. from Alimot, a resident of the Ojongbodu area, who reported that suspected kidnappers armed with dangerous weapons had attacked her brother’s home.
Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, police operatives were immediately deployed to the area. The officers launched an aggressive bush-combing operation, supported by patrol vans and blaring sirens, which forced the kidnappers to abandon their captive and flee.
As a result of the swift intervention, the kidnapped victim was rescued alive.
Police Inspector Killed in Line of Duty
However, during the operation, a police inspector was fatally wounded while bravely engaging the attackers.
“The officer courageously repelled the attack and paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” Ayanlade stated.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police ordered an immediate manhunt and a comprehensive investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that some of the fleeing suspects sustained gunshot injuries, and operatives are currently tracking them.
Victim Hospitalised
The rescued victim, Haruna Lawal, sustained a head injury during the ordeal and was promptly taken to the General Hospital, Oyo, where he is currently receiving medical attention.
The police spokesperson noted that the successful rescue, achieved within hours of the abduction, highlights the command’s professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.
Public Reassurance
Ayanlade reassured residents of Oyo State that the police command remains resolute in ensuring criminals have no hiding place. He urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
The Commissioner of Police also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his leadership and strategic support, while commending the officers involved in the operation for their courage and dedication.
