Fresh concerns over insecurity in Ondo State have emerged following the abduction of a traditional ruler, Adeniyi Adelana, by armed men who stormed his residence in Ode Oriya community, Owo Local Government Area.
The incident occurred on Saturday night when the attackers reportedly invaded the community and forcefully whisked the 60-year-old monarch into a nearby forest after attacking his home.
Confirming the development, the Ondo State Police Command said it had launched an intensive rescue operation to secure the monarch’s release and apprehend those behind the abduction.
Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the gunmen, numbering about six, struck under the cover of darkness and escaped through bush paths leading out of the community.
According to him, security operatives moved swiftly to the area after receiving a distress call.
“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.
“Preliminary reports indicate that at about 8:05 pm 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.
“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.
“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.
