The Oyo State Police Command has commenced a coordinated rescue operation to secure the release of Owoade Mathew, the headmaster who was abducted by suspected gunmen while working on his farm in Oyo State.
The operation, which involves multiple security agencies, is aimed at locating the victim, apprehending those responsible for the abduction, and ensuring his safe return to his family.
According to the police, the rescue effort is being carried out in collaboration with other security formations and local intelligence networks as authorities intensify the search for the kidnappers.
The headmaster was reportedly kidnapped by armed men who stormed his farm and whisked him away to an unknown destination. The incident sparked concern among residents and members of the education community, who have called for swift action to secure his freedom.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed that it has deployed tactical and intelligence teams to track the abductors, adding that every available resource is being utilised to rescue the victim.
Police authorities assured residents that the command remains committed to protecting lives and property and would continue to pursue those responsible until they are brought to justice.
The command also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing investigations.
It urged residents to avoid spreading unverified reports capable of undermining the rescue operation, emphasizing that operational details would only be released when necessary to protect the integrity of the mission.
The abduction comes amid renewed concerns over kidnapping incidents in parts of Oyo State and other regions of the country, with education stakeholders expressing fears over the safety of teachers and school administrators.
Also read:Gunmen abduct Oyo headmaster, demand N30m ransom
Security analysts have repeatedly stressed the importance of intelligence-led operations, stronger community policing, and closer collaboration between residents and security agencies in addressing the growing threat of kidnapping.
The incident also follows the recent rescue of pupils and staff abducted from a school in Orire Local Government Area after spending 56 days in captivity, an operation that highlighted the importance of sustained inter-agency cooperation in combating violent crime.
Residents of the affected community have appealed to the government and security agencies to intensify efforts to curb criminal activities, particularly in rural areas where farmers and other residents are increasingly vulnerable to attacks.
The police reiterated their determination to ensure the headmaster’s safe rescue and urged anyone with useful information about the whereabouts of the abductors to report promptly through established security channels.
As investigations continue, authorities have assured the public that updates will be provided as the rescue operation progresses, while reaffirming their commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across Oyo State.
