Oyo Police Command Re-arrests Fleeing Kidnap Suspect Following Intensive Manhunt
The Oyo State Police Command has successfully re-arrested a suspected kidnapper who had previously escaped from police custody, marking a significant development in ongoing security operations in the state.
Apprehension During Routine Patrol
In an official statement released on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, confirmed that the suspect was apprehended on March 17, 2026, at approximately 11:30 p.m. The arrest occurred during a routine stop-and-search patrol conducted by operatives attached to the Ojongbodu Area Command at Irepo Junction in the Ojongbodu area of Oyo State.
According to the detailed police statement, the operatives intercepted what they described as "a suspicious individual observed trekking within the vicinity." The individual was subsequently stopped and subjected to thorough questioning by the vigilant officers.
Identification and Confirmation
The apprehended individual was identified as Ayomide Kareem, a 25-year-old male resident of Osorun's Compound in Oyo. Following initial questioning, police conducted further checks which confirmed that "he is the same suspect who had earlier escaped from police custody at Jobele Division on the 10th of March, 2026, in connection with a case of suspected kidnapping."
The police command has confirmed that the suspect is currently in custody and is actively assisting with ongoing investigations into the kidnapping case for which he was originally detained.
Background of Escape and Disciplinary Actions
The statement provided important context regarding the circumstances of the suspect's initial escape. Following what police described as the "unprofessional conduct of the operatives involved," who have since been detained and are undergoing orderly room trial, Commissioner of Police CP Femi Haruna ordered an intensive manhunt that ultimately led to the successful re-arrest.
The earlier escape incident had triggered significant protests within the local community, prompting the police command to initiate comprehensive disciplinary actions against officers found culpable. These measures included:
- The redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer of Jobele Division
- Implementation of additional administrative measures designed to strengthen accountability
- Enhanced protocols to ensure greater professionalism within the force
Leadership Appreciation and Security Reassurance
Commissioner of Police CP Femi Haruna expressed appreciation for the Inspector-General of Police's "steadfast support and continued commitment to ensuring discipline, professionalism, and operational effectiveness across Commands nationwide." This acknowledgment highlights the collaborative approach being taken to address security challenges.
The Oyo State Police Command has reassured residents of its unwavering commitment to safety and security throughout the state. In their statement, police officials emphasized that they "will not relent in its efforts to bring all perpetrators of crime to justice," underscoring their determination to maintain law and order.
This successful re-arrest operation demonstrates the police command's responsiveness to security breaches and their commitment to correcting procedural lapses while maintaining focus on apprehending criminal suspects. The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges facing law enforcement agencies in addressing kidnapping and related crimes, while also highlighting the importance of professional conduct and accountability within police operations.
