Suspected kidnappers have abducted Adeniyi Adelana, the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya community in Owo LGA of Ondo state during a late-night attack on his residence.
The incident occurred on Saturday evening when armed men reportedly invaded the community and forcefully whisked the 60-year-old monarch away to an unknown destination through a nearby bush path.
Confirming the development, the Ondo state police command said a coordinated search-and-rescue operation had been launched to secure the release of the community leader and apprehend those responsible for the attack.
DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the police spokesperson disclosed that the assailants, believed to be about six in number, stormed the monarch’s residence at about 8 p.m. before abducting him.
He said security operatives swiftly responded to the distress call, secured the area and commenced preliminary investigations into the incident.
According to the police, the monarch’s wife sustained a gunshot wound to her right hand during the attack. She was rescued and rushed to a medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment.
Jimoh said security personnel had expanded operations into nearby forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a bid to locate the abductors and rescue the victim unharmed.
The command also announced increased tactical deployments across Owo and neighbouring communities to strengthen security and aid ongoing rescue efforts.
Felix Ohagwu, Ondo state commissioner of police has directed tactical units, intelligence teams and other operational personnel to intensify efforts towards the monarch’s rescue and the arrest of the suspects.
The police assured residents that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the safe return of the traditional ruler and bring the perpetrators to justice.
