UPDATE: Four abducted Oyo passengers regain freedom

By Adejayan Gbenga

The police has confirmed that all four passengers abducted by gunmen along the Igbeti–Kishi Road in Oyo State have been rescued unharmed and reunited with their families.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka.

Western Post reported that the incident occurred in the early hours of March 5, when armed assailants reportedly emerged from a nearby bush and blocked a commercial vehicle travelling from Igbeti to Kishi, forcibly whisking away four passengers into the surrounding forest.

Upon receiving the report, the commissioner of police immediately directed divisional police officers in Igbeti and Kishi, alongside tactical units, to mobilise operational resources for the safe recovery of the victims.

A combined security team comprising police operatives, personnel of the Amotekun Corps, Operation Burst, and other local security stakeholders launched an intensive bush-combing operation in the area.

As a result of the sustained search, the criminals were forced to abandon the victims and flee, allowing the team to safely rescue all four passengers.

Reacting to the development, Commissioner Haruna commended the professionalism and bravery of the security operatives, emphasising that collaboration among agencies is crucial for safeguarding lives and property across the state.

The police further disclosed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, with intensive bush-combing and intelligence-driven operations underway, while urging residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to assist security agencies in combating crime.