OPC Arrests Three Suspected Kidnappers Around Old Oyo National Park, Recovers Rifles

Members of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC) have arrested three suspected kidnappers accused of terrorising communities around Old Oyo National Park, with the suspects reportedly found in possession of sophisticated rifles.

The arrests were carried out at different times during patrol operations in Eseke village, Oriire Local Government Area, and Igbeti, Olorunsogo Local Government Area, both in Oyo State.

Kehinde Zaccheus, the OPC coordinator in Eseke, disclosed the development to journalists on Tuesday, October 27, 2026.

According to Zaccheus, one suspect was arrested in Eseke, while two others were apprehended in Igbeti. He said the suspects were allegedly found with sophisticated firearms when they were arrested.

The suspects were subsequently handed over to the police at Ikoyi-Ile and Igbeti for further investigation.

The arrests come amid persistent security concerns around the national park and neighbouring communities, where residents have faced threats from suspected kidnappers and armed groups.

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Old Oyo National Park spans 10 local government areas in Oyo State and one in neighbouring Kwara State, making security across its extensive forest terrain a major challenge for law enforcement agencies.

In January 2026, gunmen attacked the park’s administrative facility in the Oloka area of Oriire Local Government Area, killing five forest guards and other personnel. The attackers reportedly sought to free suspected criminals previously detained by forest guards.

Following investigations into the attack, the Oyo State Police Command announced the arrest of seven suspects, including an alleged mastermind of the incident. Police said intelligence-led operations were continuing to track other suspected members of the gang.

Separately, reports in May 2026 indicated that 39 students and seven teachers had been abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area, with the victims allegedly held by kidnappers operating around the park. The incident further heightened concerns about the safety of residents and travellers in the area.

The latest OPC arrests represent another development in efforts to address insecurity around the park. However, it remains unclear whether the three suspects are connected to the January attack, the reported school abductions or other criminal incidents in the area.

The police are expected to investigate the allegations against the suspects and establish whether the recovered weapons are linked to any reported crimes.

The suspects have not been convicted of any offence and remain presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.