T Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate linked to the abduction of a 20-year-old farmer in Igboti village, Oorelope Local Government Area of the state.
The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Yahaya Auta, was apprehended during a coordinated security operation launched after the incident was reported to the Okaka Police Division on June 19.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the victim was abducted at about 1:00 a.m. when approximately eight armed men invaded Igboti village through the Okutalogun axis. The attackers, who were reportedly armed with guns and cutlasses, forcefully took the farmer to an unknown destination.
The gang also allegedly carted away ₦1.24 million in cash and 50,000 CFA francs during the attack.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, ordered an extensive manhunt involving police operatives, Amotekun Corps personnel, and local hunters. The joint security team combed surrounding forests and neighbouring communities in search of the victim and the fleeing suspects.
Police said intelligence-led operations and forensic investigations led to the arrest of Auta, whose alleged involvement in the crime was established during preliminary investigations.
During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to being a member of the kidnapping gang and is currently assisting investigators with information that could lead to the arrest of other members of the criminal syndicate.
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The Police Command disclosed that its Anti-Kidnapping Squad has intensified efforts to rescue the abducted farmer and dismantle the criminal network responsible for the attack.
The Command reassured residents of its commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state, urging members of the public to continue providing credible information that will aid investigations.
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