The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a police inspector during an operation to rescue a kidnap victim in Olorunda Village, Ojongbodu, Oyo West Local Government Area.
In a statement on Sunday, Police Public Relations Officer Olayinka Ayanlade said the command received a distress call around 2:10 a.m. on January 24 from Alimot, reporting that armed kidnappers had invaded her brother’s home and abducted Haruna Lawal.
Upon receiving the report, operatives acting on the directive of Commissioner of Police Femi Haruna deployed to the area. The kidnappers, pressured by the aggressive bush-combing and advancing police patrols, abandoned the victim and fled.
“During the attack, an inspector, while courageously repelling the attack, paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” Ayanlade stated.
The victim, Lawal, sustained a head injury and was taken to the General Hospital in Oyo for treatment.
Preliminary findings indicate some attackers also sustained bullet wounds, and operatives are currently on their trail. The commissioner has ordered an immediate manhunt and comprehensive investigation.
The PPRO reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, urging the public to continue providing timely information.
CP Haruna commended the Inspector-General of Police for his support and praised the gallant officers and strategic partners involved in the operation for their courage and professionalism.
