By ThePreview Team

 

The Oyo State Police Command has re-arrested a 25-year-old suspected kidnapper, Ayomide Kareem, who escaped from custody at Jobele Division on 10 March.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said Mr Kareem was re-arrested on 17 March, at around 11:30 p.m. by operatives of the Ojongbodu Area Command during a routine stop-and-search patrol at Irepo Junction, Ojongbodu area of Oyo.

“On the 17th of March, 2026 at about 11:30 p.m., operatives attached to Ojongbodu Area Command, while on routine stop-and-search patrol at Irepo Junction, Ojongbodu area of Oyo, intercepted a suspicious individual observed trekking within the vicinity.

“The individual was promptly stopped and subjected to questioning,” the statement said.

The police said upon interrogation, he was identified as one Ayomide Kareem, male, aged 25 years, of Osorun’s Compound, Oyo.

“Further checks confirmed that he is the same suspect who had earlier escaped from police custody at Jobele Division on the 10th of March, 2026 in connection with a case of suspected kidnapping,” it said.

The suspect, according to the police, is currently in custody and assisting with ongoing investigations.

READ ALSO: Police speak on suspected bandits arrested at Akure airport

The statement said the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Femi Haruna, had ordered an intensive manhunt to ensure the prompt re-arrest of the suspect following his escape, which led to the detention and orderly room trial of the involved operatives for unprofessional conduct.

The escape of the suspect had earlier sparked protests within the community.

In response, the command said it initiated a comprehensive disciplinary process against officers found wanting in the incident, including the redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Jobele Division, alongside other administrative measures aimed at reinforcing accountability and professionalism within the force.

The command reassured the public of its unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all residents and will not relent in its efforts to bring all perpetrators of crime to justice.

“Members of the public are encouraged to remain calm, law-abiding, and continue to support the police with credible and timely information,” the police said.