The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate linked to the abduction of a 20-year-old farmer and cattle rearer, Michael Benua, in Oorelope Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the breakthrough followed ongoing investigations into the attack reported at the Okaka Police Division.
The victim was seized in the early hours of 19 June when about eight armed men invaded Igboti Village via the Okutalogun axis. The attackers, armed with firearms and cutlasses, reportedly whisked him away after storming the community and also stole N1.24 million and 50,000 CFA.
Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, ordered an immediate manhunt for the suspects.
A joint operation involving the Okaka Police Division, the Amotekun Corps and local hunters led to coordinated search efforts across nearby forests and surrounding communities.
The police said forensic analysis of the scene and bush-combing operations led to the arrest of a 23-year-old suspect, Yahaya Auta, whose alleged role was established during preliminary investigations.
He is said to have confessed to being part of the kidnapping gang and is assisting investigators with information aimed at locating other fleeing suspects and securing the victim’s release.
The command said its Anti-Kidnapping Squad has reinforced ongoing operations as search-and-rescue efforts continue.
It reassured residents that the case is being treated with urgency and that coordinated operations are ongoing to rescue the victim and apprehend all those involved.
The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.
