Three suspected kidnappers were feared dead on Monday following a fierce exchange of gunfire with security operatives in Otu, headquarters of the Itesiwaju Local Government Area of Oyo State. The incident, which occurred at midnight, has thrown the agrarian community into tension as one victim remains in captivity.
Investigations by Newsmen revealed that the attackers, believed to be part of a notorious kidnap-for-ransom gang terrorizing the Oke-Ogun axis, stormed the town under the cover of darkness. Residents said the assailants operated with sophisticated weapons and moved with calculated precision, targeting unsuspecting locals.
Eyewitnesses recounted that a group of farmers, who had noticed strange movements around their farmlands earlier in the evening, raised the alarm that led to the swift intervention of the Oyo State security network. A source who pleaded anonymity disclosed that the gunmen abducted one resident before operatives arrived.
“The security men responded quickly and engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel. Three of them were gunned down instantly, but unfortunately, one managed to escape with the victim,” the source narrated.
Another eyewitness, who declined to be named for security reasons, confirmed that efforts were underway to track the fleeing kidnapper and secure the release of the abducted individual. He added that the matter had been formally reported to the Otu Divisional Police Station for coordinated investigation and reinforcement.
The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the spate of insecurity in Oke-Ogun, a zone historically regarded as the food basket of Oyo State but increasingly plagued by kidnapping, banditry, and herder-farmer clashes. Community leaders have repeatedly appealed for more robust security measures, including the deployment of advanced surveillance technology and increased patrols across border communities.
As of press time, the Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, Adewale Osifeso, could not be reached for official comments. Calls and messages sent to his mobile line went unanswered.
Security analysts warn that the boldness of Monday’s attack underscores the growing audacity of criminal elements in the state. A retired security officer, who spoke with our correspondent, stressed that the government must urgently intensify intelligence gathering and improve coordination among local vigilantes, the Amotekun Corps, and the Nigeria Police Force to avert further tragedy.
Meanwhile, residents of Otu and adjoining villages remain on edge as the search for the kidnapped victim intensifies.
