IBADAN, OYO STATE | July 14, 2026
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the successful rescue of Mr. Owoade Mathew, a school headmaster and farmer who was abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Oyo State.
According to the Command, the victim regained his freedom following a coordinated security operation involving the police and other security agencies. Authorities said sustained operational pressure forced the abductors to abandon the victim and flee.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed that the rescue followed the immediate deployment of joint security personnel after the kidnapping, which occurred on July 12, 2026.
The police stated that the victim was safely recovered on the evening of July 13 and has since been taken to a medical facility for evaluation and treatment after his ordeal.
According to the Command, investigators will debrief Mr. Owoade after he receives medical attention as part of ongoing efforts to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible for the abduction.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, commended the efforts of security agencies, local vigilante groups, community leaders and residents whose cooperation contributed to the successful operation.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, assuring residents that security agencies will continue to intensify operations against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The Commissioner also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to strengthen efforts aimed at combating criminal activities across Oyo State.
Police authorities said investigations into the incident are ongoing, while efforts have been intensified to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
— SUNTV Global Channel
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