The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspect in connection with an abduction incident in Okaka Town of the Oke Ogun zone of the state, stressing that investigation was ongoing t arrest other gang members.
According to a release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade (DSP) made available to Sunday Telegraph, the assailants and kidnappers abducted Michael Benua, a 20-year-old male farmer and cattle rearer from the Igboti community on 19th June, 2026. They abducted Yahaya Auta, male, aged 23 years.
The release stated that “the incident was reported on 19 June 2026 at about 0900hrs following information received that earlier that same day at about 0100hrs, a group of about eight armed men invaded Igboti Village via Okutalogun. The Command wishes to reassure the good people of Oyo State that this unfortunate incident is being treated with the utmost urgency and seriousness. Residents are encouraged to remain calm and law-abiding, as security agencies have intensified coordinated operations to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of all those involved. The Command remains resolute and fully committed to protecting lives and property across the state, and no effort will be spared in bringing every member of the criminal gang to justice.
“According to the report, the assailants, armed with firearms and cutlasses, abducted Michael Benua, a 20-year-old male farmer and cattle rearer from the Igboti community, and whisked him away to an unknown destination. The attackers also allegedly carted away the sum of ₦1,240,000 and 50,000 CFA.
“Upon receipt of the report, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga immediately directed a holistic manhunt comprising operatives of the Okaka Police Formation, personnel of the Amotekun Corps and local hunters. The joint team embarked on intensive combing of the surrounding bushes and adjoining locations with a view to rescuing the victim and apprehending the perpetrators.
“During the preliminary investigation, forensic sweep of the scene of crime and combing of the surrounding bushes led to the arrest of one Yahaya Auta, male, aged 23 years, whose involvement in the criminal act was established. Upon interrogation, the suspect confessed to being a member of the gang and is currently assisting investigators with efforts aimed at apprehending other fleeing members of the syndicate and securing the safe rescue of the victim.
“The Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad has reinforced ongoing operations, while intensive search and rescue efforts continue. The suspect remains in custody and investigation is ongoing.
“The Oyo State Police Command assures residents of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urges members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information”, it said.
