The Oyo State Police Command has arrested a suspected member of a kidnapping syndicate in connection with the abduction of a 20-year-old farmer and cattle rearer, Michael Benua, in Oorelope Local Government Area of the state.

The Command said efforts were ongoing to rescue the victim and apprehend other members of the gang involved in the attack.

According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the breakthrough was recorded during an ongoing investigation into the abduction reported at the Okaka Police Division.

The victim was reportedly abducted in the early hours of June 19 when about eight armed men invaded Igboti Village through the Okutalogun axis.

The assailants, armed with firearms and cutlasses, allegedly whisked Benua away to an unknown destination after attacking the community. The suspects were also said to have carted away N1.24 million and 50,000 CFA during the operation.

Following the report, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, directed an immediate manhunt for the perpetrators.

A joint security team comprising operatives of the Okaka Police Formation, personnel of the Amotekun Corps and local hunters subsequently launched coordinated search operations in surrounding forests and neighbouring communities.

The police disclosed that a forensic sweep of the crime scene and intensive combing of adjoining bushes led to the arrest of one Yahaya Auta, 23, whose involvement in the crime was allegedly established during preliminary investigations.

According to the Command, the suspect confessed to being a member of the kidnapping gang and is currently assisting investigators with information aimed at tracking down other fleeing members of the syndicate and facilitating the rescue of the victim.

The police added that operatives of its Anti-Kidnapping Squad had reinforced ongoing operations as search-and-rescue efforts continue.

“The Command wishes to reassure the good people of Oyo State that this unfortunate incident is being treated with the utmost urgency and seriousness. Security agencies have intensified coordinated operations to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of all those involved,” the statement said.

It added that no effort would be spared in bringing every member of the criminal gang to justice.

The suspect remains in police custody while investigations continue.

The Command also appealed to residents to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that could aid ongoing operations and enhance public safety across the state. (The Guardian)