The Ondo State Police Command has launched a large-scale search operation following the abduction of a community leader, Adeniyi Adelana, in Ode Eriya Village, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Adelana, 60, who serves as the Baale (traditional ruler) of the community, was reportedly kidnapped on Friday night when armed men invaded his residence.
According to the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, Abayomi Jimoh, the attackers stormed the premises under the cover of darkness and forcefully took the traditional ruler through a nearby bush path to an unknown location.
Following a distress call, police operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, were deployed to the area and immediately commenced a rescue mission.
The police said a full-scale search-and-rescue operation is underway, with security personnel combing forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a bid to locate and rescue the abducted monarch. Tactical deployments have also been reinforced in Owo and neighbouring communities.
During the attack, the monarch’s wife sustained a gunshot wound to her right hand. She was rescued and taken to a medical facility, where she is receiving treatment and is reportedly responding well.
Residents said about six armed assailants invaded the community at approximately 8:00 p.m. on Friday before abducting the traditional ruler.
The police have urged residents to remain calm and continue their normal activities while cooperating with security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing rescue efforts.
The incident has heightened concerns about insecurity in parts of Ondo State and renewed calls for stronger measures to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes in the South-West region.