The [Oyo State Police Command](https://www.npf.gov.ng) confirmed on Sunday that a coordinated security sweep along the Awe–Iwo Road resulted in the death of a suspected kidnapper and the safe recovery of a 15‑year‑old boy who had been abducted from Akinyele Local Government Area.
The operation, which began after credible intelligence arrived at about 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, led to a gunfight at roughly 9:30 p.m. on the Pipeline‑Ajagba axis. Police operatives recovered an Android mobile phone and a cutlass, while several members of the criminal gang fled with gunshot wounds.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the intelligence indicated that the kidnappers were demanding ransom for the victim’s release. Acting on this tip, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, [Abimbola Olugbenga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Police_commissioner), ordered the Anti‑Kidnapping Section (AKS) to join forces with the [Oyo Zone Vigilante Group of Nigeria](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vigilantism) and move against the suspects.
The joint team advanced toward the suspects’ hideout on the Awe–Iwo Road. When the security personnel approached, the kidnappers opened fire, prompting a brief but intense exchange of gunfire. One of the alleged kidnappers was hit and later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, while the remaining gang members scattered in different directions, sustaining injuries.
The rescued individual was identified as Sumaila Muhammadu, a 15‑year‑old male who had been taken from the Onidundun area on 18 October. He was handed over to medical authorities and is reported to be in stable condition.
The deceased suspect’s body was taken to a hospital for confirmation of death by a medical doctor before being transferred to the morgue. Police continue to pursue the fleeing assailants, urging community members to remain calm and report any persons with gunshot injuries to the authorities without delay.
Ayanlade also appealed to doctors, hospital administrators, and other health workers to immediately inform the police if anyone seeks treatment for gunshot wounds, emphasizing the importance of swift communication in ongoing investigations.
This successful rescue underscores the command’s commitment to intelligence‑led policing and its determination to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State.