Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the safe release of a farmer, Mr. Owoade Mathew, who was abducted by gunmen along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State.
The Command disclosed that the victim regained his freedom on the evening of July 13, 2026, following a sustained joint security operation that mounted significant pressure on the kidnappers, forcing them to flee and abandon him.
The development comes barely a day after the police announced the farmer’s abduction, which occurred on July 12, 2026, along the remote bush road.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, coordinated efforts by security operatives and ongoing investigations played a crucial role in securing the victim’s release.
“Following the immediate deployment of a coordinated joint security operation and sustained investigative efforts by the Command, the intense operational pressure mounted on the abductors forced the hoodlums to abandon the victim, who regained his freedom on the evening of 13 July 2026,” the statement said.
The police said the rescued farmer has been taken to a medical facility for examination and treatment.
According to the Command, investigators will debrief the victim after his medical care as part of efforts to gather information that will aid the ongoing investigation and support the arrest and prosecution of those behind the kidnapping.
“The victim has since been taken to a medical facility for evaluation and necessary treatment. Upon completion of medical attention, he will be debriefed by investigators as part of the ongoing investigation aimed at identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting all those responsible for the criminal act,” the statement added.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the contributions of other security agencies, community members and residents who supported the operation.
He reaffirmed the Command’s determination to sustain efforts aimed at protecting lives and property across the state and ensuring that criminal elements do not find refuge within Oyo State.
The police also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in preventing and combating crime.
For emergencies, the Command advised members of the public to contact the Oyo State Call Response Center through the toll-free line 615, or the Police Command Control Room via 08081768614 and 07055495413.
