By Our Correspondent
National News – Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers abducted a businessman in Irawo, Atisbo Local Government Area of Oyo State, in a violent attack that also left a 10-year-old girl injured.
The incident occurred on Monday, after the victim, identified as Alhaji Wasiu Aleshinloye, was allegedly trailed from Kraal Market in Ago-Are to his filling station and later to his residence, where he was seized at gunpoint and taken to an unknown destination.
The girl, Modinat Aleshinloye, sustained gunshot injuries and is receiving treatment in hospital. Authorities say investigations are ongoing.
Police in Oyo State confirmed the attack at about 10:20 p.m. on May 11, 2026, reporting it at Tede Division.
According to spokesperson Olayinka Ayanlade preliminary findings show the businessman was tracked from a busy market through multiple stops before the abduction at his home in Irawo.
He said three armed men carried out the operation firing shots during the invasion.
The police stated that tactical and intelligence-led operations have been launched to rescue the victim and apprehend the suspects.
Residents of Atisbo LGA expressed fear over rising kidnapping cases calling for stronger security presence across rural routes linking Ago-Are Irawo and surrounding communities.
Authorities believe the attack may be part of a wider kidnapping network targeting traders and business owners.
The injured child was quickly rushed to a nearby hospital where doctors worked to extract pellets.
Community leaders have urged calm while urging security agencies to intensify patrols.
This incident adds to a series of recent abductions in Oyo State highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
Security sources confirmed that ballistic analysis of recovered shells is underway to trace the weapons used.
Efforts to secure the victim’s release continue as operatives comb surrounding forests and highways.
Local authorities have urged residents to provide useful intelligence to aid ongoing investigations.
The state government is also expected to review security deployment across Atisbo axis to prevent further attacks.
Meanwhile, the injured girl remains under medical supervision as doctors monitor her recovery.
