By: Sunday Ameh
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 12 passengers abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Isua-Akoko axis of the state following a coordinated overnight security operation.
The victims were reportedly kidnapped in the early hours of Friday after armed men intercepted two commercial Hummer buses travelling from Benue State to Ibadan and forcefully marched several passengers into a nearby forest.
Confirming the development in a statement obtained by Starnews NG on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the rescue operation involved police operatives, local hunters and other security stakeholders.
According to him, the command received a distress call at about 1:30 a.m., triggering the immediate deployment of security personnel to the area.
Jimoh said: “Upon receiving information about the attack, operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene and launched a coordinated rescue operation in collaboration with local hunters and other security stakeholders.”
He explained that security personnel immediately commenced intensive bush-combing operations and intelligence-driven surveillance across the forests and surrounding areas where the victims were suspected to have been taken.
According to the police spokesperson, sustained pressure mounted by security operatives eventually forced the kidnappers to abandon some of the captives.
“The joint operation yielded positive results as 12 victims, including the drivers of the affected buses, were successfully rescued from captivity,” he stated.
He further disclosed that the rescued victims are currently receiving medical attention and psychosocial support before being reunited with their respective families.
Jimoh noted that security agencies have continued to intensify efforts to rescue other victims believed to still be in captivity.
“Additional tactical teams and intelligence assets have been deployed to strengthen ongoing rescue and manhunt operations,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, visited the scene for an on-the-spot assessment of the security situation.
Speaking during the visit, the police commissioner reassured residents of the command’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure the safety of lives and property.
Ohagwu urged members of the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid crime prevention and response efforts.
“We remain committed to sustaining the ongoing crackdown on kidnappers and all forms of criminal activities across the state. Public cooperation remains vital in achieving lasting security,” the commissioner said.
The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity along major highways and communities in parts of Ondo State, as residents continue to call for intensified security presence across vulnerable areas.
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