Ibadan, Oyo State
The Oyo State Police Command has stepped up security across the state, launching raids, stop-and-search operations, and intelligence-based patrols aimed at tackling crime and improving public safety.
The move comes as many residents remain worried about security following the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area and reports of rising criminal activities in some communities.
Police spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said the operation is part of efforts to make communities safer, increase police presence, and stop criminals from operating freely in different parts of the state.
Police Target Crime-Prone Areas
According to the police, officers have been deployed to locations identified as criminal hotspots based on intelligence reports.
The operation includes regular patrols, surprise raids, and stop-and-search checkpoints aimed at preventing kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and other violent crimes.
The Command said the exercise will cover not only major towns such as Ibadan, Ogbomoso, and Oyo, but also rural communities where criminals often hide due to limited security presence.
Police authorities assured residents that officers involved in the operation have been directed to act professionally and within the law.
The Command stated that stop-and-search operations, intelligence-led patrols, and raids on suspected criminal hideouts will continue across the state, while security presence will be increased in both urban and rural areas.
Police to Clamp Down on Vehicles Without Proper Identification
As part of the operation, the police have also started checking vehicles and motorcycles that do not have proper identification.
Vehicles with fake number plates, covered registration numbers, altered plates, or no identification at all will be stopped and investigated.
The police said criminals often use such vehicles to carry out kidnappings, robberies, and other crimes while avoiding detection.
Anyone found violating traffic or security regulations may be arrested, while affected vehicles and motorcycles could be impounded according to the law.
Security Push Follows School Kidnapping Incident
The renewed security operation comes weeks after one of the state’s most shocking security incidents.
On May 15, 2026, armed men reportedly attacked three schools in Ahoro Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area and abducted dozens of pupils and teachers.
The affected schools were Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
Reports indicated that about 39 pupils and seven teachers were taken during the attack.
Among those abducted was a vice principal, Mrs. Rachael/Folawe Alamu.
The situation became more tragic after reports emerged that one of the teachers, Michael Oyedokun, died while in captivity.
The incident sparked public anger and protests in Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos states, with many Nigerians demanding the immediate release of the victims.
Teachers Withdraw Services Over Security Concerns
The abduction also raised concerns among education stakeholders.
As a result, the Oyo State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) directed public school teachers to withdraw their services from June 1, citing safety concerns.
The union said stronger security measures were needed before teachers could confidently return to work.
The development has renewed calls for better protection of schools, especially in rural communities that are often vulnerable to attacks.
Police Deny Reports of Victims’ Release
The Oyo State Police Command recently dismissed reports claiming that the kidnapped pupils and teachers had been released.
Police described the reports as false and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
According to the Command, rescue efforts are still ongoing and security agencies are working to secure the freedom of those still being held.
Federal Government Responds
Following the school abduction, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims.
The President also approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen security in remote areas where criminals often operate.
On May 31, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff and other officials, visited the affected communities to assess the situation and coordinate further security measures.
There have also been discussions about establishing a military base in the area to improve security and prevent future attacks.
Growing Security Challenge
Although Oyo State has traditionally been considered one of the safer states in Nigeria, security experts say the spread of kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country is affecting more communities in the South-West.
Criminal groups that previously operated mainly in parts of Northern Nigeria are increasingly expanding into new areas, forcing security agencies to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Analysts believe the latest police operation is part of wider efforts to prevent criminals from establishing strong networks within communities and to reassure residents that security agencies are actively responding to the threat.
Residents Asked to Cooperate
The Oyo State Police Command has appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with security personnel during the ongoing operations.
The police also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious movements, abandoned vehicles, and any unusual activities in their communities.
As security agencies continue efforts to fight crime and secure the release of the kidnapped victims, many residents hope the operation will help restore safety and confidence across Oyo State.
Authorities say achieving lasting security will require continued cooperation between residents and security agencies.