The Oyo State Police Command has successfully re-arrested a suspected kidnapper who had previously escaped from custody, an event that had sparked public outrage and protests in the community.
In a statement released on Wednesday, March 18, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ayanlade Olayinka confirmed that the suspect was apprehended on March 17, 2026, at approximately 11:30 p.m. during a routine stop-and-search patrol by operatives of the Ojongbodu Area Command at Irepo Junction in Ojongbodu, Oyo.
“The operatives intercepted a suspicious individual observed trekking within the vicinity,” the statement said.
“Upon questioning, he was identified as Ayomide Kareem, a 25-year-old male from Osorun’s Compound, Oyo.
“Further verification confirmed that Kareem was the same suspect who had escaped from police custody at Jobele Division on March 10, 2026, in connection with a suspected kidnapping case.
Kareem is now back in police custody and is assisting authorities with ongoing investigations.
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Following the earlier escape, the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna, ordered an intensive manhunt and disciplinary measures against the officers involved, describing their conduct as “unprofessional.”
Those officers have been detained and are currently facing an orderly room trial. The Command also redeployed the Divisional Police Officer of Jobele Division as part of administrative reforms to reinforce accountability and professionalism.
The statement highlighted that the escape had triggered community protests and stressed the Command’s commitment to restoring public confidence.
CP Haruna also expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police for his “steadfast support and continued commitment to ensuring discipline, professionalism, and operational effectiveness across Commands nationwide.”
The Oyo State Police reassured residents of its dedication to public safety, emphasizing that it “will not relent in its efforts to bring all perpetrators of crime to justice,” and called on the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative by providing credible and timely information.