Gunmen have kidnapped a 38-year-old man identified as Nathaniel Peter at Layeri village near Ikoyi-Ile in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, the incident was reported on 24 September 2026 at about 1750hrs by a resident of the community. The resident informed the police that earlier that day, at about 0420hrs, armed men had invaded a family compound in the area.
The police operatives commenced action and proceeded to the scene for preliminary assessment and investigation. Preliminary findings revealed that three of the armed men forcibly gained entry into the room of Nathaniel Peter and abducted him from the premises. The assailants escaped through the National Reserve Forest after reportedly carting away a motorcycle and the victim’s mobile phone.
However, the police operatives, in continuation of the investigation and efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the abduction, arrested two suspects, namely Muhammadu Abubakar, male, adult, and Jayun Danali, male, aged 17 years. The suspects are currently assisting the police with information relevant to the investigation.
The arrests have consequently provided useful investigative leads towards identifying and apprehending other persons connected with the incident. The Oyo State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has intensified coordinated operations aimed at securing the safe rescue of the victim and apprehending other fleeing members of the criminal gang.
The Oyo State Police Command reassures members of the public, particularly residents of the affected communities, of its commitment to their safety and security. Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and promptly share credible information with the police, as the Command continues its efforts to resolve the incident and maintain peace and security across the state.
The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Oyo State, with residents calling for increased measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The police have assured that they are working tirelessly to ensure the safe release of the victim and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The police investigation is ongoing, and further details about the incident are expected to be released as they become available. The incident is a reminder of the need for communities to work together with law enforcement agencies to prevent and combat crime.
Key points
- Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the abduction.
- The police have intensified operations to secure the safe rescue of the victim.
- The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in Oyo State.
