The Oyo State Police Command, on Friday, arrested three suspected female kidnappers in Ikoyi-Ile, Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects, according to a statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, in Ibadan, the state capital, are Fathia Nurudeen, 17; Taiwo Fatai, 17; and Munirat Saliu, 16.

Ayanlade explained that one Islamiat Omowumi of Ikoyi-Ile reported at the police station on Friday, January 9, 2026, that she had received a threatening phone call from a private number.

He said, “The command wishes to inform members of the public of the successful arrest of suspected kidnappers following a threat report received by the command, demonstrating its commitment to proactive, intelligence-led and preventive policing.

“On Friday, January 9, 2026, one Islamiat Omowumi of Ikoyi-Ile reported at the station that she had received a threatening phone call from a private number.

“The caller allegedly threatened to kidnap her and demanded human parts, claiming she was being targeted because she is a meat seller, and further demanded a ransom of ₦10m, with threats of dire consequences should the demand not be met.

“In response, detectives of the command immediately swung into action, deploying intelligence-led investigative measures, which swiftly led to the arrest of three suspects, namely Fathia Nurudeen, 17; Taiwo Fatai, 17; and Munirat Saliu, 16.”

The PPRO said that during interrogation, the suspects confessed to the act, claiming that the threat was intended as a prank.

He added that a small Itel mobile phone allegedly used in perpetrating the act was recovered from them, further corroborating the investigation.

Ayanlade stated that the suspects were currently in custody while investigation continued to fully unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine appropriate legal action in accordance with the law.

The command warned members of the public, particularly youths, against engaging in acts capable of causing fear, panic or threats to life, noting that such actions constitute serious criminal offences with attendant legal consequences.

The police reassured residents of their commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged them to promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station. (The PUNCH, excluding headline)