Gunmen on Saturday night stormed the Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State and abducted the head, Adeniyi Adelana, and injured his wife during the abduction.
Sources in the community said a group of not less than six armed men stormed the residence of Adelana, 60, who is the Baale of Ode Oriya, and whisked him to an unknown destination.
In the course of the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand. She was promptly rescued and taken to a nearby medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively to medical care.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abayomi Jimoh, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)
said men of command have launched a coordinated rescue operation following the abduction
Jimoh said the assailants invaded the premises under the cover of darkness and forcefully whisked the victim away through a nearby bush path to an unknown destination.
He said upon receipt of the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), B Division, Owo, immediately mobilized a combined team of police operatives and other security personnel to the scene.
According to him, the area was swiftly secured, and a preliminary assessment of the crime scene was conducted as part of ongoing investigative efforts.
The police spokesman said a comprehensive search-and-rescue operation was immediately activated, with security operatives combing nearby forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes in a determined effort to track the movement of the kidnappers, secure the victim’s safe release, and bring the perpetrators to justice. Tactical deployments have also been strengthened across the area and adjoining communities to enhance operational effectiveness.
He said the Commissioner of Police has directed all tactical units, intelligence assets, and operational teams of the Command to intensify efforts toward the swift rescue of the victim and the apprehension of those responsible for the criminal act.
He said the Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that the victim is reunited safely with his family while all those involved face the full weight of the law.
Jimoh urged members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear. He said residents are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that may aid ongoing operations.
He said any suspicious movements or activities should be promptly reported to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.
Jimoh said that the Command reassured residents of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and reiterated its determination to rid the State of criminal elements.
He added that efforts are being intensified across all fronts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes, while ensuring the safety and security of all residents of the state.
