By Daniel Richard
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Adeniyi Adelana, after attacking his residence and shooting his wife.
The incident occurred at about 8 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, when the armed men reportedly stormed the community and invaded the monarch’s home before whisking him away to an unknown destination.
The spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the attack in a statement on Sunday.
According to the police, Adelana’s wife sustained a gunshot wound to her right hand during the assault and was immediately rushed to a medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment.
“The assailants reportedly invaded the premises under the cover of darkness and forcefully whisked the victim away through a nearby bush path to an unknown destination,” the statement said.
Following a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of B Division, Owo, mobilised a combined team of security personnel to the scene.
Police said a large-scale search-and-rescue operation has since been launched, with operatives combing nearby forests, bush paths and suspected escape routes in a bid to locate the abducted community leader and apprehend his captors.
Commissioner of Police Felix Ohagwu has directed tactical units, intelligence teams and other operational personnel across the command to intensify efforts toward securing the victim’s release.
The police also confirmed that security deployments have been strengthened in the affected area and neighbouring communities to prevent further attacks.
“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 statement added.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that may assist ongoing rescue efforts.
The Ondo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state while assuring residents that every effort is being made to rescue the traditional ruler safely.
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