By Duchess Ifeoluwa 

Ondo State Police Command has commenced a coordinated search-and-rescue operation following the abduction of a community leader, Mr Adeniyi Adelana, the Baale of Ode Oriya Village in Owo Local Government Area of the state.

The traditional ruler was reportedly kidnapped on Friday night when armed men invaded his residence and whisked him away to an unknown destination.

According to police sources, the incident occurred at about 8:05 p.m. when approximately six gunmen stormed the residence of the 60-year-old community leader, firing gunshots before forcing him into a nearby bush path.

During the attack, the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot wound to her right hand.

Security operatives who responded to the distress call rescued the injured woman and rushed her to a medical facility for treatment.

Police authorities said she is currently receiving medical attention and is responding positively.

The Command disclosed that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of B Division, Owo, immediately mobilised a combined team of security operatives to the scene upon receiving information about the attack.

The area was subsequently secured while preliminary investigations commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the abduction.

According to the police, a comprehensive search operation has since been launched, with operatives combing surrounding forests, bush paths and other suspected escape routes in an effort to locate the abductors and rescue the victim.

The Command also deployed tactical units to strategic locations within Owo and neighbouring communities to strengthen the ongoing manhunt.

The Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, has directed all tactical and intelligence units of the Command to intensify efforts towards the safe rescue of the abducted traditional ruler and the apprehension of those responsible for the crime.

The police boss assured residents that the Command remains committed to securing the release of the community leader and ensuring that the perpetrators face the full weight of the law.

The Command urged members of the public to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities while security agencies intensify rescue efforts.

Residents were also encouraged to provide credible information that could assist the ongoing operation and to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.