In a dramatic turn of events that underscores both the dangers faced by Nigerian law enforcement and the resilience of security operatives, the Oyo State Police Command confirmed on Sunday the killing of a police inspector during a daring rescue mission to save a kidnap victim in the Oyo West Local Government Area.
The operation, which culminated in the successful rescue of 34-year-old Haruna Lawal, was marred by tragedy when one of the gallant officers lost his life in the line of duty while confronting armed kidnappers in the remote village of Olorunda, Ojongbodu.
According to a detailed statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Olayinka Ayanlade, the incident unfolded in the early hours of Saturday, January 24, 2026, at approximately 2:10 AM. The command received a distress call from Alimot, a resident of Ojongbodu, who reported that suspected kidnappers armed with dangerous weapons had stormed her brother’s residence.
“Invasion was swift and violent,” the PPRO recounted. “The assailants forcibly abducted Haruna Lawal and made off with his motorcycle, fleeing into the surrounding bushes and forests toward an unknown location.”
The situation triggered an immediate response from police leadership. Acting on direct orders from the Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, tactical operatives were swiftly deployed to the area. A coordinated bush-combing operation was launched, with patrol vehicles and sirens cutting through the night to disorient and pressure the fleeing suspects.
“The kidnappers, realizing that police forces were closing in, panicked and abandoned their victim,” Ayanlade revealed. “Haruna Lawal was rescued alive and immediately evacuated for medical attention.”
However, the rescue came at a heavy cost. During the confrontation, a senior police inspector was fatally wounded while bravely engaging the assailants. The officer, whose identity has not yet been disclosed pending notification of next of kin, is being hailed as a hero who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect a civilian.
“The command mourns the loss of a gallant officer who paid the supreme price in the service of humanity,” the statement read. “He exemplified courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty.”
Lawal, the rescued victim, sustained a significant head injury during the abduction ordeal but is currently receiving treatment at the General Hospital in Oyo town. Medical sources confirm that his condition is stable, and he is responding well to care.
The swift resolution of the case—within hours of the abduction—has drawn commendation for the efficiency and responsiveness of the Oyo State Police Command. According to preliminary investigation findings, some of the fleeing suspects sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation and are now the target of an ongoing manhunt.
“The successful operation reflects the command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property,” Ayanlade emphasized. “We are intensifying efforts to track down and apprehend all those involved in this heinous crime.”
The Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident and reiterated his resolve to ensure that criminals find no safe haven in Oyo State. He also extended his profound gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his strategic guidance and support, while praising the bravery and professionalism of the officers involved in the rescue.
“This is both a moment of sorrow and a moment of pride,” CP Haruna said. “While we mourn the loss of a brother in uniform, we also celebrate the safe recovery of a citizen and the effectiveness of our security architecture when it functions with urgency and precision.”
The PPRO urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to law enforcement agencies. “Community cooperation remains a critical pillar in our fight against crime,” Ayanlade stressed.
As Oyo State grapples with the persistent menace of kidnapping and armed violence, the incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks officers face daily to uphold the rule of law. While one life was lost in the shadows of duty, another was saved—and hope, for now, endures.
Rest in peace, Inspector. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten.
