Police Inspector Killed During Kidnapping Rescue Operation in Oyo State
In a tragic incident highlighting the dangers faced by security personnel, a police inspector was killed during a rescue operation targeting suspected kidnappers in Oyo State. The event unfolded in Olorunda Village, Ojongbodu, within the Oyo West Local Government Area, where officers were attempting to free an abducted victim.
Details of the Kidnapping and Swift Response
The Oyo State Police Command, through its spokesperson DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday, January 25, 2026. According to the report, gunmen armed with dangerous weapons invaded a residence in the Ojongbodu Area, abducting Haruna Lawal and escaping with his motorcycle to an unknown location. The distress call was received by the command on January 24, 2026, at approximately 0210 hours, from Alimot, a female resident reporting the invasion at her brother's home.
Acting on directives from the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, police operatives immediately deployed to the area. Their prompt response included an aggressive bush-combing operation, which applied significant pressure on the suspects. As officers advanced with patrol vans and sirens, the kidnappers, realizing security forces were closing in, abandoned the victim and fled, leading to his successful rescue alive.
Casualties and Ongoing Investigations
During the confrontation, an inspector courageously repelling the attack paid the supreme price in the line of duty. Following this loss, Commissioner Haruna ordered an immediate manhunt and a comprehensive investigation into the assault. Preliminary findings indicate that some of the attackers sustained bullet injuries, and operatives are currently on their trail to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The rescued victim, Haruna Lawal, sustained a head injury during the ordeal and was promptly conveyed to the General Hospital in Oyo, where he is receiving appropriate medical attention. The swift rescue, achieved within hours of the abduction, underscores the professionalism and dedication of the state police command in responding decisively to threats against public safety.
Police Commitment and Public Reassurance
DSP Ayanlade emphasized that efforts have been intensified to track down and arrest the suspects, with the investigation ongoing. He reassured the public of the command's resolve to ensure criminals find no hiding place in the state and urged continued cooperation through the provision of timely and credible information.
In his statement, Commissioner Haruna expressed appreciation for the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his continuous leadership and unwavering support. He also commended the gallant officers and operatives involved in the operation, along with strategic partners, for their courage, professionalism, and commitment to duty.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement in combating kidnapping and other security challenges in Nigeria, while highlighting the ongoing efforts to protect citizens and maintain order.
