By Duchess Ifeoluwa
Ondo State Police Command has rescued a 26-year-old woman who was abducted in Owo and arrested four suspects in connection with the crime.
This successful operation was said to have been recorded as a result of a coordinated security operation involving the police, Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes.
The victim, identified as Miss Ogechi John, was reportedly abducted on Monday at Gozako Filling Station along the Emure–Akure Expressway by armed men who arrived in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry without registration number.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the suspects forcefully took the victim away and fled to an unknown destination, prompting an immediate security response.
The Command said it swiftly activated a coordinated rescue operation, deploying patrol and tactical teams to strategic locations across Owo and neighbouring communities while securing entry and exit points to prevent the suspects from escaping.
The operation yielded a breakthrough when the suspected getaway vehicle was discovered abandoned in a bush at Ojana, Owo.
Further intelligence-led investigations led to the arrest of four suspects identified as Friday Shola, 27; Friday Monday, 21; Osho Joseph, 24; and Lawal Mariam.
Police said the suspects were apprehended while in possession of a lady’s motorcycle believed to be connected to the ongoing investigation.
During preliminary interrogation, one of the suspects allegedly revealed that the abandoned Toyota Camry had earlier been handed over to a herbalist identified as Lawal Lucky of Idimepe Street, Owo, who is currently at large.
The police disclosed that sustained operational pressure and intelligence gathering eventually led to the successful rescue of the victim, who has since been reunited with safety and is receiving necessary support.
The Command said investigations are continuing to identify and apprehend other members of the syndicate as well as uncover the full circumstances surrounding the abduction.
Commending officers involved in the operation, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, praised their professionalism, resilience and swift response.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, stressing that criminal elements would not be allowed to find safe haven in Ondo State.
The Commissioner also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information capable of preventing crime and aiding investigations.
“The Ondo State Police Command remains steadfast in its resolve to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure that all persons involved in criminal activities are brought to justice,” the statement said.
