23-Year-Old Suspect Confesses in Oyo State Kidnap Drama

…As Police tighten net around criminal syndicate after breakthrough arrest

…As suspect now helping police track down criminal network

The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping gang linked to the abduction of a 20-year-old farmer and cattle rearer, Michael Benua, in Igboti Village via Okutalogun area of the state.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the incident occurred in the early hours of June 19, 2026, when about eight armed men reportedly invaded the community, abducted the victim and fled to an unknown destination.

The attackers were also said to have made away with ₦1.24 million and 50,000 CFA.

The Police Command stated that upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed a coordinated manhunt involving operatives from the Okaka Police Formation, personnel of the Amotekun Corps and local hunters.

The joint security team subsequently launched intensive search operations in surrounding bushes and adjoining communities.

The Command disclosed that a preliminary investigation, including a forensic sweep of the crime scene and combing of nearby forests, led to the arrest of a 23-year-old suspect, Yahaya Auta.

Police said the suspect confessed to being a member of the gang and is currently assisting investigators in efforts to apprehend other fleeing suspects and rescue the abducted victim.

The Oyo State Police Command assured residents that efforts have been intensified to secure the victim’s release and bring all those involved in the crime to justice.

The Command urged members of the public to remain calm and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, while investigations remain ongoing.