The Oyo State Police Command says it has re-arrested a 25 year old suspected kidnapper identified as Ayomide Kareem.
The suspect earlier escaped from custody, an incident that sparked public concern and protests within the affected community.
He was, however, apprehended on March 17, 2026, at about 11:30 p.m. by operatives attached to the Ojongbodu Area Command during a routine stop-and-search operation at Irepo Junction in Oyo.
The Police Command informed that the suspect who was intercepted while trekking in the area, upon interrogation, confirmed to be the same individual who escaped from police custody at the Jobele Division on March 10, 2026, in connection with a suspected kidnapping case.
According to the command, he is currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, Femi Haruna, had ordered an intensive manhunt for the suspect when he escaped, while disciplinary actions have been initiated against officers involved in the incident.
The Command further disclosed that the operatives responsible for the lapse have been detained and are undergoing orderly room trial, while the Divisional Police Officer of Jobele Division has been redeployed alongside other administrative actions aimed at strengthening accountability and professionalism within the Force.
The police noted that the suspect’s initial escape triggered protests in the community, prompting swift internal reforms and renewed operational efforts.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Command assured residents that it would continue to pursue all criminal elements and urged members of the public to remain law-abiding and provide credible information to security agencies.
