The Ondo State Police Command has launched a coordinated search-and-rescue operation following the abduction of a community leader, Adeniyi Adelana, by armed men in Ode Oriya Village, Owo Local Government Area.
Adelana, 60, who serves as the Baale of Ode Oriya, was reportedly kidnapped on Friday night when gunmen invaded his residence and whisked him away to an unknown location.
Confirming the incident on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said operatives responded swiftly after receiving a distress call and immediately commenced efforts to rescue the victim.
According to the police spokesperson, the attackers stormed the premises under the cover of darkness and forced the community leader through a nearby bush path before escaping.
Following the attack, the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, led a team of operatives to the area, where a full-scale rescue operation was activated.
Jimoh said security personnel have been combing forests, bush paths and other suspected escape routes in a bid to locate the abductors and secure the release of the traditional leader.
“A full-scale search-and-rescue operation has since been launched, with police operatives combing surrounding forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes to locate and rescue the abducted community leader,” he said.
He added that tactical deployments had been reinforced across the affected community and neighbouring areas to improve operational effectiveness and increase pressure on the kidnappers.
The police also disclosed that the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury during the attack.
According to Jimoh, she was rescued and rushed to a nearby medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively.
The abduction has heightened anxiety among residents of the community, with concerns growing over security in the area.
Local sources said about six armed men invaded the village at approximately 8 p.m. on Friday, June 13, 2026, before seizing the traditional leader and fleeing through a nearby bush route.
Despite the tension generated by the incident, the police urged residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities while security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the victim.
The command also appealed to members of the public to provide credible and timely information that could assist ongoing operations and help track down those responsible for the abduction.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to secure the safe release of the community leader and bring the perpetrators to justice.
