Police Rescue Abducted Monarch and Two Others in Kwara State

Police Rescue Abducted Monarch and Two Others in Kwara State

The Kwara State Police Command has successfully rescued the Onigbesi of Onigbesi Community in Isin Local Government Area, Oba Moses Oyinloye Omotayo, along with two other abductees, Maryam Abubakar and Aisha Ilyasu, following a coordinated security operation in the Elerin/Ijomu-Oro axis of the state. The rescue mission, which took place on Thursday, came after the victims were reportedly abducted in Igbesi on 22 August 2026. During the operation, one of the kidnappers was neutralised as security forces engaged in an intense firefight with the criminal gang.

The operation began after a report was received at around 1000 hours at the Oro Police Station from Mr. Abdul, a vigilante, who stated that one of his men had been shot in the hand while patrolling the bush near Elerin/Ijomu-Oro. Acting swiftly on this intelligence, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Oro led a combined team comprising police officers, military personnel, and community vigilantes to the reported location. Upon sighting the advancing security team, the suspected kidnappers opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire that resulted in the death of one of the assailants.

Despite the resistance, the security operatives pressed forward and launched a determined pursuit, ultimately locating and rescuing the three hostages. The rescued individuals were immediately evacuated to a hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. According to SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command, all three are currently safe and receiving necessary care. He emphasized that the successful rescue highlights the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing, inter-agency cooperation, and rapid response mechanisms in combating violent crimes.

State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, praised the bravery and professionalism displayed by the security teams involved in the operation. He commended their swift action and coordination, which played a crucial role in ensuring the safe recovery of the victims. The commissioner also stressed that the command remains committed to dismantling criminal networks operating within the state and will not tolerate any form of violence or kidnapping.

Efforts are now underway to track down and arrest the remaining members of the kidnapping gang. Security operations continue across known hotspots in Kwara State to prevent further incidents. The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to authorities to support ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security. This rescue underscores the government’s resolve to protect lives and ensure justice for victims of crime in Kwara State.