A coordinated operation by security agencies in Ondo State has led to the successful rescue of a 26-year-old woman who was abducted in Owo, while four suspects have been arrested in connection with the crime.
The victim, Miss Ogechi John, was reportedly kidnapped on Monday at Gozako Filling Station along the Emure–Akure Expressway when armed men arrived in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry and forcefully whisked her away to an unknown destination.
Following a distress report, security agencies comprising the police, Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes launched a joint operation to track down the abductors and rescue the victim.
According to a statement by the Ondo State Police Command, strategic entry and exit points within Owo and adjoining communities were immediately secured, while tactical teams were deployed to comb nearby bushes and suspected escape routes.
The operation recorded an early breakthrough when the suspects’ getaway vehicle was discovered abandoned in a bush at Ojana, Owo.
Acting on intelligence gathered during the operation, security operatives arrested four suspects allegedly linked to the abduction. The suspects were identified as Friday Shola, 27; Friday Monday, 21; Osho Joseph, 24; and Lawal Mariam.
The suspects were reportedly found in possession of a lady’s motorcycle believed to be connected to the ongoing investigation.
Preliminary findings further revealed that the abandoned Toyota Camry had allegedly been handed over to a herbalist, Lawal Lucky, of Idimepe Street, Owo, who is currently on the run.
The police said sustained intelligence gathering and operational pressure mounted by the joint security team eventually led to the successful rescue of the victim.
Miss Ogechi John has since regained her freedom and is receiving the necessary care and support while investigations continue.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects and uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, commended the officers and other security stakeholders involved in the operation for their professionalism, resilience and swift response.
He reaffirmed the commitment of security agencies to safeguarding lives and property across the state, assuring residents that criminal elements would continue to face sustained pressure from law enforcement agencies.
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information capable of preventing crime and aiding investigations