Gunmen invade Ondo community, kidnap 60-year-old Baale

The traditional ruler of Ode Oriya community in Ondo State, Adeniyi Adelana, has been abducted by gunmen. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on Saturday when approximately six armed men stormed the 60-year-old Baale's residence in the Owo Local Government Area and forcibly took him to an unknown destination through a nearby bush path.

“

The Ondo State Police Command has launched a coordinated rescue operation following the abduction of a community leader by suspected kidnappers in Ode Oriya Village, Owo Local Government Area of the state.

Following the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer in Owo immediately mobilized a combined team of police operatives and other security personnel. The area was secured, and a preliminary assessment of the crime scene was conducted. The Ondo State Police Command has since launched a comprehensive search-and-rescue operation, with security operatives actively combing nearby forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes.

“

Preliminary reports indicate that at about 8:05 p.m. on the reported date, a group of approximately six armed men stormed the residence of Mr Adeniyi Adelana, aged 60, the Baale of Ode Oriya Village.

During 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 care. The police are determined to track the kidnappers' movements, secure Adelana's safe release, and bring those responsible to justice.

“

The assailants reportedly invaded the premises under the cover of darkness and forcefully whisked the victim away through a nearby bush path to an unknown destination.

The state Commissioner of Police has directed all tactical units and intelligence assets to intensify efforts toward the swift rescue of the victim and the arrest of the perpetrators. The command remains resolute in its commitment to reuniting the Baale safely with his family and ensuring that all involved face the full weight of the law.

“

Upon receipt of the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer, B Division, Owo, immediately mobilised a combined team of police operatives and other security personnel to the scene.