The Ondo State Police Command has launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation following the abduction of a community leader, Mr. Adeniyi Adelana, the Baale of Ode Oriya Village in Owo Local Government Area of the state.
The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident, noting that a full-scale manhunt had been activated to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and the arrest of those responsible.
Preliminary reports indicate that at about 8:05 p.m., a group of about six armed men stormed the residence of the 60-year-old community leader under the cover of darkness. The attackers reportedly invaded the compound and forcefully whisked him away through a nearby bush path to an unknown destination.
During the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand. She was promptly rescued and taken to a medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively.
Following a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer, B Division, Owo, mobilised a combined team of operatives and other security personnel to the scene. The area was secured, while a preliminary assessment was carried out as investigations commenced.
The Command thereafter launched a comprehensive search-and-rescue operation, with tactical units combing surrounding forests, bush paths and possible escape routes in a bid to track the abductors and secure the victim’s release.
Security deployments have also been strengthened across Owo and adjoining communities to prevent further incidents and support ongoing operations.
DSP Jimoh reiterated that the Commissioner of Police had directed all tactical and intelligence units of the Command to intensify efforts towards the swift rescue of the abducted community leader and ensure the arrest of the perpetrators.
He assured residents that the Command remained committed to the safe return of the victim and would ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The police urged members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities, while calling for credible and timely information that could assist ongoing operations.