The Oyo State Police Command has neutralised three suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted victim during a joint security operation carried out in Otu, located in the Oke-Ogun axis of Oyo State.

According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the operation followed a distress call received on May 25 from local hunters who reportedly came under attack by suspected kidnappers while on a hunting expedition in the area.

The statement said no casualty was recorded among the hunters during the initial attack.

Following the alert, police operatives, local hunters and other security agencies were mobilised to the scene. On arrival, the suspected kidnappers reportedly opened fire on the security team, leading to a gun duel.

The police said the operatives overpowered the hoodlums through a coordinated tactical response, resulting in the neutralisation of three suspected kidnappers.

During the operation, security operatives also rescued an abducted victim identified as Mosudi Gbolagade, aged about 50, who was allegedly kidnapped at Okaka and held captive within the Otu area.

The victim reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during the incident and was immediately evacuated to a medical facility where he is currently receiving treatment.

The police further disclosed that one AK-47 rifle without ammunition, one single-barrel gun and one machete were recovered from the scene.

One local hunter also sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire and is receiving medical attention at a hospital.

Commending the efforts of the operatives and local hunters, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State praised the bravery and collaboration of all security stakeholders involved in the operation.

The command reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations against criminal activities across the state and urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies.