Security operatives foil kidnap attempt in Ondo, rescue victim

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ondo State Police Command has foiled an attempted kidnapping in Upenmen Community, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, following a swift response by a joint security team.

The command said suspected gunmen invaded the residence of Prince Olumuyiwa Ademulegun on the evening of July 15, 2026, firing gunshots in an apparent attempt to abduct him.

Upon being alerted, operatives of the Owo ‘A’ Division, in collaboration with personnel of the Nigerian Army and local hunters, responded and engaged the assailants in a gun duel, forcing them to flee into a nearby forest.

The intended victim was rescued unhurt, while no casualty was recorded during the operation.

Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said, “The fleeing suspects escaped into a nearby forest, which was immediately combed by security operatives. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators, while enhanced security measures have been put in place across the Upenmen area to prevent a recurrence.”

Jimoh added that security agencies had intensified efforts to track down the suspects, assuring residents that the command would sustain the ongoing operation until those responsible were arrested.

The Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, saying security agencies would not relent in the fight against criminality across the state.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly provide credible information to security agencies, stressing that timely intelligence remained vital to tackling crime and improving public safety.