By our Reporter
The Ondo State Police Command has commenced a coordinated search-and-rescue operation following the suspected abduction of a community leader by armed kidnappers in Ode Oriya Village, Owo Local Government Area of the state.
According to the Command, the incident occurred at about 8:05 p.m. on June 13, 2026, when approximately six armed men reportedly invaded the residence of Mr. Adeniyi Adelana, the Baale of Ode Oriya Village, and forcefully whisked him away through a nearby bush path to an unknown destination.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Command disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, has directed an intensive rescue operation aimed at securing the victim’s safe release and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
Following the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, immediately mobilised a combined team of police operatives and other security personnel to the scene. The area was secured while investigators conducted a preliminary assessment as part of ongoing efforts to unravel the circumstances surrounding the abduction.
The police further revealed that the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand during the attack. She was promptly rescued and taken to a nearby medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively.
Security operatives have since intensified search operations across nearby forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a determined effort to locate the kidnappers and rescue the victim. Tactical deployments have also been reinforced across the area and neighbouring communities to strengthen security and enhance operational effectiveness.
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 community leader and the arrest of those responsible for the crime.
“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,” the statement said.
The Ondo State Police Command urged residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear, assuring the public that every available resource is being deployed to secure the victim’s release.
Residents were also encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that may assist ongoing operations. The Command advised members of the public to report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.
Reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property, the Command stated that efforts are being intensified across the state to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes while ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
