Police Foil Kidnapping Attempt in Itaogbolu, Arrest Suspect and Rescue Couple
26th November, 2025
The Ondo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough with the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the rescue of two victims following a coordinated operation in Itaogbolu community on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the operation began at about 0530hrs after a distress call reported the abduction of Mr. David and his wife from their farm hut at Odeigede Camp, near the Ondo–Ekiti border. The Commissioner of Police immediately ordered the deployment of all available operational assets to secure the victims’ release, setting the stage for a swift and organised intervention.
Officers from the Iju–Itaogbolu Division and the State Anti-Kidnapping Squad (SAKS), assisted by youths of the community, advanced deep into the forest in pursuit of the kidnappers. Under mounting pressure from the combined team, the kidnappers abandoned their captives, enabling Mr. David—who sustained machete wounds—and his wife to escape before they were safely recovered by operatives.
Maintaining the momentum, the police expanded their search using intelligence-driven tactics, leading to the discovery of a hut where one suspect was apprehended. Recovered items include a Samsung Note 10 mobile phone, a sword, and a broken bottle found in the suspect’s pocket. Although the kidnappers had worn masks, the suspect’s physique matched the victim’s description. He is currently providing useful information to investigators as efforts continue to track down other accomplices. All recovered exhibits have been handed over to SAKS for further investigation.
The Commissioner of Police commended the synergy between officers and community youths, noting that their timely cooperation was critical to the operation’s success. He also praised the professionalism and dedication of the operatives involved. Appreciating the Inspector-General of Police for his strategic guidance and support, the Commissioner reaffirmed that Ondo State remains hostile terrain for criminals.
The Command warned individuals or groups operating along border communities to desist from criminal acts, stressing that they will be apprehended and prosecuted. Residents were urged to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and supportive of ongoing security efforts.
