Police in Oyo State say they have rescued a 15-year-old boy abducted from Akinyele Local Government Area and killed a suspected kidnapper during a gun battle along the Awe–Iwo Road.
The boy, Sumaila Muhammadu, was abducted from the Onidundun area on October 18, 2026. Police said his captors were demanding a ransom before officers received intelligence about his whereabouts on October 22.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 25, police spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade said operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Section worked with the Oyo Zone Vigilante Group of Nigeria to secure his release.
According to the police account, the team advanced on the suspects at the Pipeline, Ajagba axis of the road. A gun battle broke out at about 9:30pm after the suspects opened fire on the approaching team.
Ayanlade said the boy was rescued and one unidentified suspected kidnapper was taken to a hospital, where a doctor confirmed him dead. Other members of the gang fled, reportedly with gunshot injuries.
An Android mobile phone and a cutlass were recovered during the operation, police said.
The command asked residents around the Awe–Iwo Road and neighbouring communities to report anyone with suspicious gunshot wounds. It also urged medical practitioners and hospital administrators to notify police if anyone seeks treatment for injuries suspected to be connected with the encounter.
Residents can pass information through the nearest police station or the command’s established communication channels.
Sources: Punch, Daily Post
Something we should clarify?
Contact the newsroom
