Police Intensify Search for Abducted Community Leader in Ondo
14th June, 2026
The Ondo State Police Command has commenced an intensive rescue operation following the suspected abduction of a prominent community leader in Ode Oriya Village, Owo Local Government Area of the state.
According to police authorities, the victim, Mr. Adeniyi Adelana, 60, who is the Baale of Ode Oriya Village, was reportedly kidnapped on the evening of the incident by a group of armed men who invaded his residence and forcibly took him away to an unknown destination.
Preliminary findings indicate that the attackers, numbering about six, stormed the community leader’s home at approximately 8:05 p.m. under the cover of darkness before escaping through a nearby bush path.
Following a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of B Division, Owo, swiftly deployed a joint team of police operatives and other security personnel to the scene. The area was secured while investigators conducted an initial assessment as part of ongoing efforts to track down the perpetrators.
During the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand. She was immediately evacuated to a medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and is reported to be responding positively.
The Command said a comprehensive search-and-rescue mission is underway, with security operatives combing surrounding forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a bid to locate the victim and apprehend those responsible for the crime. Additional tactical deployments have also been made across the affected area and neighbouring communities.
Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, psc, mnips, mspsp, has directed all tactical, intelligence and operational units of the Command to intensify efforts toward the victim’s safe rescue and the arrest of the kidnappers.
The Police Command reassured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to remain calm and provide useful information that could assist ongoing operations. Residents were also encouraged to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.
Authorities reiterated their determination to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state while ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
