Operatives of the Agro-Rangers Unit of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Oyo State have clashed with suspected kidnappers and armed bandits in the Iseyin area, leading to the death of one suspect and the arrest of two others.
According to a statement issued by the NSCDC Public Relations Officer in Oyo State, SC Samuel Opebiyi, the operation followed a distress call from residents, which prompted a quick response from Agro-Rangers operatives alongside other security agencies.
On arrival at the scene, the security team reportedly came under fire from a group of about five armed men. The officers returned fire, resulting in a gun battle that lasted for several minutes.
The statement explained that the operatives, using superior tactics and coordination, were able to overpower the attackers. One of the suspects was shot dead during the encounter, while two others were captured alive.
It added that two members of the gang managed to escape into the nearby forest, although they were believed to have sustained gunshot injuries.
Items recovered from the suspects include a locally made cartridge gun, ammunition shells, two cutlasses, a metal rod, and some charms allegedly used for protection.
Both the arrested suspects and the recovered weapons have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force at the Iseyin Divisional Headquarters for further investigation and prosecution.
The Oyo State Commandant of the NSCDC, Augustine Padonu, praised the Agro-Rangers operatives for their courage, professionalism, and quick response during the operation.
He said the deployment of the Agro-Rangers across Iseyin and other parts of the state is part of ongoing efforts to reduce crime and improve security in Oyo State.
Padonu also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and useful information, stressing that maintaining security is a shared responsibility.