By Adesakin Adefemi
The Ondo State Police Command has rescued 26-year-old Ogechi John and arrested four suspects after a joint operation with Amotekun, local hunters, and vigilantes. Miss John was abducted on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Gozako Filling Station along the Emure–Akure Expressway by unidentified men in an ash-coloured, unregistered Toyota Camry.
Police spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh said the Command activated an immediate response after receiving a distress report. Security teams blocked entry and exit points around Owo and adjoining communities while tactical units combed nearby bushes and possible escape routes.
The coordinated search led operatives to Ojana, Owo, where the suspected getaway vehicle was found abandoned. Intelligence gathered at the scene resulted in the arrest of three suspects found with a lady’s motorcycle believed to be linked to the crime.
Those currently in custody have been identified by the police as Friday Shola, aged 27; Friday Monday, 21; Osho Joseph, 24; and Lawal Mariam. According to the Command, the four suspects were picked up during follow-up operations based on intelligence obtained from the scene where the abandoned vehicle was discovered.
During preliminary interrogation, one suspect allegedly told police that the abandoned Camry had been handed over to a herbalist, Lawal Lucky of Idimepe Street, Owo, who remains at large.
Sustained operational pressure and intelligence-driven efforts eventually led to the victim’s rescue. Ogechi John is now receiving support from authorities.
Commissioner of Police CP Felix Ohagwu commended the operatives for their swift action, describing it as a display of professionalism. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to denying criminals safe haven in Ondo and urged residents to share credible information as efforts continue to arrest fleeing suspects.
