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.
Police sources said the incident occurred at about 8:05 p.m. when about six armed men stormed the residence of the 60-year-old traditional leader, firing shots before whisking him away through a bush path to an unknown destination.
During the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot wound to her right hand. She was quickly rescued by security operatives and taken to a nearby medical facility, where she is receiving treatment and is reported to be responding positively.
According to a statement from the Command, the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, immediately mobilised a combined team of operatives to the scene upon receiving the distress call.
The area was secured, and a preliminary investigation was conducted as part of ongoing efforts to track down the kidnappers.
The police further disclosed that a comprehensive search operation has since been activated, with operatives combing surrounding forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes.
Tactical units have also been deployed across the area and neighbouring communities to strengthen the manhunt.
The Commissioner of Police has directed all tactical and intelligence units of the Command to intensify efforts toward the swift rescue of the abducted traditional ruler and the arrest of those responsible.
He assured residents that the Command remains committed to securing the safe return of the victim and ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
The police urged residents to remain calm, go about their lawful activities, and provide credible information that could assist ongoing operations, while warning that any suspicious movements should be promptly reported to security agencies.
Security has since been reinforced across Owo and adjoining communities as efforts continue to rescue the abducted community leader.
