The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the release of Mathew Owoade, a 60-year-old headmaster and farmer who was abducted by gunmen along the Igbojaye–Budo Aare bush road in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state.
The command disclosed that Owoade regained his freedom on Monday evening after a coordinated security operation mounted immediately after his abduction on Saturday. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, sustained investigative efforts and operational pressure forced the kidnappers to abandon the victim.
Following his release, Owoade was taken to a medical facility for evaluation and necessary treatment. Police said he will be formally debriefed after receiving medical attention as investigators continue efforts to identify, apprehend, and prosecute all those responsible for the abduction.
The police noted that the ongoing investigation is aimed at dismantling the criminal network behind the incident and ensuring that those involved are brought to justice. Security operatives are also continuing intelligence-led operations to track down the fleeing suspects.
Commending the efforts of all those involved, the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Olugbenga Abimbola, praised other security agencies, members of the local community, and residents for their cooperation throughout the operation. He emphasized that their support contributed significantly to the victim’s safe release.
The Commissioner further reassured residents of the command’s unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across Oyo State. He vowed that security agencies would sustain the ongoing offensive against criminal elements and ensure there is no safe haven for kidnappers or other violent offenders in the state.
