Operatives of the Oyo State Police Command have neutralised three suspected kidnappers during a fierce gun battle in Otu, Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state, while also rescuing a kidnapped victim, Mosudi Gbolagade.
The incident, according to the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, occurred during a coordinated operation involving police operatives and local hunters aimed at dislodging the criminal gang believed to be terrorising parts of the area.
During the encounter, the suspects were killed in the exchange of gunfire, while the victim, who was earlier abducted in Okaka town, was successfully freed from captivity in the Otu axis.
The rescued victim, identified as a 50-year-old man, was however said to have sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and has since been evacuated to a medical facility where he is currently receiving treatment.
The police also confirmed that one of the local hunters who participated in the operation sustained gunshot injuries and is likewise undergoing medical attention.
Authorities say the operation marks a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to clamp down on kidnapping networks operating within the state.