Ondo Police Rescue Kidnap Victim in Daring Forest Operation, Three Suspects Killed, Two Arrested
The Ondo State Police Command has successfully rescued a 60-year-old kidnap victim, Mr. Tijani Aremu, after a dramatic gun battle with suspected kidnappers in Ikare.
According to a statement from the Command on Wednesday, operatives attached to the Ikare Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and supported by local forest hunters, launched the operation on August 20, 2025, after Aremu’s abduction.
The kidnappers had demanded millions of naira in ransom and fixed a location for the exchange. Acting on intelligence, the police laid an ambush with the support of the victim’s family. When the suspects arrived to collect the ransom, they engaged security operatives in a fierce gun duel.
“One of the kidnappers was neutralized on the spot while a single-barrel rifle was recovered. Others fled with bullet wounds,” the Command said.
A subsequent combing of nearby forests led to the discovery of two additional lifeless bodies of suspected kidnappers, raising the number neutralized to three. Two suspects — identified as 20-year-old Yahaya Isa and one Ismail Ismail — were arrested.
The operation culminated in the safe rescue of Mr. Aremu, who was found unharmed. He has since been taken to the hospital for medical checks and will soon reunite with his family.
Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the bravery of the operatives and local hunters. He also lauded the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his “people-centered policing strategy and emphasis on community cooperation,” which he said provided the framework for the successful rescue.
The Police Command urged residents to remain calm and continue supporting security agencies with timely information.
“This operation is a clear testament to what can be achieved when security agencies and community stakeholders work hand in hand. Together, we will make Ondo State unsafe for criminals and secure for law-abiding citizens,” the statement added. Read More
