By, Tayo Olatunji, Osogbo

Operatives of the Iru Ekun Security Network have arrested two suspected kidnappers and rescued two abducted civilians in Ora-Igbomina, Osun State.

The operation which was carried out on Wednesday, followed intelligence that three residents were kidnapped Tuesday and taken into a nearby forest by gunmen.

Iru Ekun Team Leader said the suspects, who confessed during interrogation, claimed to be nationals of Niger Republic, while two victims were found unhurt and evacuated, with a continued search for the third victim.

Speaking to newsmen, Chief Sunday Adeyemo Igboho, founder of Iru Ekun, said the group handed the suspects over to the Nigeria Police Division, Oke-Ila, for investigation and prosecution on Wednesday.

“Our duty is prevention and protection, not confrontation. Iru Ekun exists to bridge the security gap at the grassroots and work within the law,” Igboho said.

He urged traditional rulers and residents across Osun and border states to strengthen local vigilance and share timely information with security agencies to prevent cross-border criminal infiltration.

The Ora-Igbomina incident reflects a growing pattern of kidnapping gangs exploiting forest reserves in Osun, Oyo, Kwara, and Ondo states, targeting farmers and rural travelers.

Meanwhile, Iru Ekun said efforts to rescue the remaining victim were ongoing with caution to guarantee his safety.