Oyo kidnap: Police redeploy DPO, order re-arrest of suspect

Police have redeployed the Divisional Police Officer, as well ordered re-arrest of a suspect in connection with the kidnap incident that occurred at the Jobele community, in the Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo state.

The state Commissioner of Police Femi Haruna at a parley with the representatives from the four local government areas within Oyo town, including youth leaders, community representatives, and student leaders, held at the Command Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan on Thursday ordered the re-arrest as well prosecution of the suspects in accordance with the law.

This formed part of the resolution as made known in a statement released by the state Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade.

The statement noted that the representatives commended the command for taking prompt steps to address the situation and deploying operational assets to the affected community.

Responding to the concerns, Haruna re-assured the stakeholders that the command was committed to a transparent and thorough investigation into the matter.

The CP said, “We appreciate the responsible manner in which the stakeholders have engaged with the command. I want to assure the good people of Oyo town that we are committed to a transparent, impartial and thorough investigation into the incident.”

He disclosed that disciplinary actions had already been initiated against officers connected with the incident.

“The Divisional Police Officer has been issued a query, while other officers involved have been detained and are currently undergoing internal disciplinary procedures pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.”

To further guarantee transparency in the investigative process, Haruna announced the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer.

“The redeployment of the DPO has been directed to ensure that the investigation proceeds without any form of interference and to guarantee fairness in the process. The suspect connected with the incident had been ordered to be re-arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law,” he added.

He explained that investigation has been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force X-Squad to ensure professional oversight.

“In addition, the investigation has been assigned to the Police X-Squad to ensure thoroughness, accountability and professional oversight in the handling of the case,” the commissioner stated.

Haruna also approved the deployment of additional tactical teams to strengthen security in Oyo Town and its surrounding communities.

While reiterating the command’s commitment to justice and accountability, he warned that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

He urged residents to support security agencies with credible information that could help prevent crime and improve safety in the area.

“We urge members of the public to continue cooperating with the police by providing credible information that will aid ongoing investigations and help us enhance public safety across the state.“