By Adesakin Adefemi
The Ondo State Police Command has foiled two separate kidnap attempts in Owo Local Government Area within hours of each other on Sunday, June 21, 2026, rescuing all victims and forcing the armed gangs to flee into the bush.
Commissioner of Police Felix Ohagwu said the Command’s proactive operational readiness stopped the assailants from carrying out their plans. “The incidents underscore the Command’s proactive operational readiness and the effectiveness of ongoing efforts aimed at combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the State,” he stated.
The first attack occurred at about 7:05 p.m. when a six-man armed gang stormed the residence of Pastor Taiwo Taiwo, Chairman of Ojana New Area, Owo, with the intent to abduct him. A distress call prompted the Divisional Police Officer, B Division, Owo, to mobilize a patrol team to the scene.
On arrival, police operatives engaged the assailants in a gun duel. The superior tactical response forced the criminals to retreat into the surrounding bush, abandoning their mission. Pastor Taiwo and his family members were rescued unharmed and relocated to a safer location for enhanced protection.
Hours later at about 11:10 p.m., another armed gang attacked Daniel Ologun, 39, a resident of Gbegun Community along Alhaja Camp, off Housing Estate, Owo. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to his left leg as the kidnappers abducted his wife, Mrs. Taibat Ologun, 34, and their two children aged four and two into the forest.
Police immediately launched a rescue operation with support from Nigerian Army personnel. The sustained pressure on the fleeing kidnappers disrupted their movement and compelled them to abandon Mr. Ologun. In a coordinated search-and-rescue effort, Mrs. Ologun and her two children were rescued unhurt at about 1:50 a.m.
The injured victim was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, where he is receiving treatment and responding positively. Police said the assailants escaped with gunshot injuries during the operation.
CP Ohagwu has directed that the rescued victims be debriefed to obtain intelligence that will aid investigations and tracking of the fleeing suspects. Joint security teams have intensified bush-combing operations in Owo and adjoining forests to dismantle criminal hideouts.
The Command commended the bravery of its operatives and the Nigerian Army, as well as members of the public who provided timely information. Police reassured residents that safety remains the top priority and urged continued vigilance and cooperation to defeat kidnapping and other violent crimes in Ondo State.
