The Oyo State Police Command has re-arrested a suspected kidnapper who earlier escaped from police custody, an incident that had sparked public concern and protests within the community.

In a statement on Wednesday signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the Command said the suspect was apprehended on March 17, 2026, at about 11:30 p.m. by operatives attached to the Ojongbodu Area Command during a routine stop-and-search patrol at Irepo Junction in the Ojongbodu area of Oyo.

According to the statement, the operatives intercepted “a suspicious individual observed trekking within the vicinity,” who was subsequently stopped and questioned. He was identified as Ayomide Kareem, a 25-year-old male of Osorun’s Compound, Oyo.

Further checks confirmed that “he is the same suspect who had earlier escaped from police custody at Jobele Division on the 10th of March, 2026, in connection with a case of suspected kidnapping.”

The Command said the suspect is currently in custody and assisting the police with ongoing investigations.

Following the earlier escape and the “unprofessional conduct of the operatives involved, who have since been detained and are undergoing orderly room trial,” the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, ordered an intensive manhunt which led to the re-arrest.

The statement recalled that the incident had triggered protests within the community, prompting the Command to initiate disciplinary actions against officers found culpable, including the redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer of Jobele Division and other administrative measures to strengthen accountability and professionalism.

The Commissioner of Police also appreciated the Inspector-General of Police for his “steadfast support and continued commitment to ensuring discipline, professionalism, and operational effectiveness across Commands nationwide.”

The Command reassured residents of its commitment to safety and security, stating it “will not relent in its efforts to bring all perpetrators of crime to justice.”

It further urged members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and continue to support the police with credible and timely information. (The PUNCH)