Ondo: Bandits abduct traditional ruler, shoot wife

Gunmen suspected to kidnapper have abducted the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Adeniyi Adelana

Adelana, 60, was abducted from his residence when the gunmen, numbering about six, invaded the community around 8:30 pm on Saturday.

According to sources, the gunmen, who were fully armed, shot the wife of the village before whisking her husband away into the forest.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the development, saying the woman is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

According to the police spokesperson, operatives were swiftly mobilised to the scene of the incident, with tactical teams deployed to comb the forest as well as other parts of the adjoining community to rescue the victim.

He said, “A comprehensive search-and-rescue operation was immediately activated, with security operatives combing nearby forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a determined effort to track the movement of the kidnappers, secure the victim’s safe release and bring the perpetrators to justice.

“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring that the victim is reunited safely with his family while all those involved face the full weight of the law.

“The Ondo State Police Command urges members of the public to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear. Residents are encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information that may aid ongoing operations.”