The Police Command in Ondo State has confirmed the rescue of a 26-year-old woman who was abducted in Owo, alongside the arrest of four individuals suspected to be involved in the crime.
This was disclosed on Tuesday in Akure by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, who said the incident occurred on Monday and is currently under investigation.
According to him, the victim, identified as Miss Ogechi John, was kidnapped by armed men at Gozako Filling Station along the Emure–Akure Expressway.
The attackers were said to have arrived in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry without a registration number before whisking her away to an unknown destination.
Jimoh explained that, following a distress alert, police operatives immediately launched a joint operation in collaboration with Amotekun Corps, local hunters, and vigilante groups.
Security teams subsequently took control of strategic routes within Owo and surrounding communities, while coordinated patrols and tactical units combed nearby forest areas.
During the operation, the suspected getaway vehicle was discovered abandoned in a bush at Ojana in Owo.
Acting on further intelligence, officers arrested three suspects found with a motorcycle believed to belong to the victim. They were identified as Friday Shola (27), Friday Monday (21), and Osho Joseph (24), alongside another suspect.
One of the suspects reportedly revealed during questioning that the abandoned vehicle had earlier been handed over to a herbalist, identified as Lawal Lucky of Idimepe Street, Owo, who is currently on the run.
Jimoh added that sustained pressure from security operatives eventually led to the safe rescue of the abducted woman, who has since been placed under care and support.
He noted that efforts are ongoing to apprehend all remaining suspects and ensure everyone connected to the crime is brought to justice.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Felix Ohagwu, commended the operatives for their swift response and professionalism during the operation.
He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to strengthening security across Ondo State and ensuring that criminal activities are decisively tackled.