By Adeola Badru
The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspect in connection with the abduction of a 20-year-old farmer and cattle rearer, while intensifying efforts to rescue the victim and apprehend other members of the criminal gang.
The Command said the arrest followed swift and coordinated security operations launched after the incident was reported at the Okaka Police Division.
According to the police, the abduction occurred in the early hours of June 19, 2026, when about eight armed men reportedly invaded Igboti Village via Okutalogun at about 1:00 a.m.
The attackers, armed with firearms and cutlasses, allegedly abducted Michael Benua and whisked him away to an unknown location. They were also said to have stolen N1.24 million and 50,000 CFA during the operation.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said swift operational response led to the arrest of a suspect linked to the incident.
“The Command confirms that swift and coordinated operational measures undertaken following the report have yielded significant progress, resulting in the arrest of one suspect linked to the incident,” he said.
He added that investigations were ongoing, while intelligence-led operations had been intensified to secure the victim’s release and arrest other fleeing suspects.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, ordered a joint manhunt involving operatives from the Okaka Police Formation, the Amotekun Corps and local hunters.
The combined team launched extensive search operations across surrounding forests and neighbouring communities to track the victim and the perpetrators.
Preliminary investigations, including a forensic review and bush combing, reportedly led to the arrest of a 23-year-old suspect identified as Yahaya Auta.
According to the police, the suspect confessed to being a member of the gang and is assisting investigators in efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate and rescue the victim.
The Command added that its Anti-Kidnapping Squad had intensified operations in the area, while search-and-rescue efforts continued.
It urged residents to remain calm and continue to support security agencies with timely and credible information.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains resolute and fully committed to protecting lives and property across the state,” the statement added.
