Gunmen Abduct Ondo Traditional Ruler, Shoot Wife
Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted the traditional ruler of Ode Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Adeniyi Adelana. The attack occurred at about 8 pm on Saturday, June 13, 2026, when the gunmen invaded the community and went to the residence of the 60-year-old community leader, whisking him away to an unknown destination.
The spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday. He said the victim’s wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand during the attack and had been taken to the hospital, where she is receiving treatment.
According to Jimoh, the command has commenced a search-and-rescue operation, with security operatives combing nearby forests, bush paths, and escape routes in an effort to track the movement of the kidnappers and secure the victim’s safe release.
Police Launch Coordinated Rescue Operation
“The Ondo State Police Command, under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, has launched a coordinated rescue operation following the abduction of a community leader by suspected kidnappers in Ode Oriya Village, Owo Local Government Area of the State,” the statement read.
Preliminary reports indicate that at about 8:05 p.m. on June 13, 2026, a group of approximately six armed men stormed the residence of Mr. Adeniyi Adelana, the Baale of Ode Oriya Village. 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.
Security Response and Investigation
Upon receipt of the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), B Division, Owo, immediately mobilized a combined team of police operatives and other security personnel to the scene. The area was swiftly secured, and a preliminary assessment of the crime scene was conducted as part of ongoing investigative efforts.
During the attack, the victim's wife sustained a gunshot injury to her right hand. She was promptly rescued and taken to a nearby medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively to medical care.
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.
Tactical Deployments and Public Appeal
Tactical deployments have also been strengthened across the area and adjoining communities to enhance operational effectiveness. The Commissioner of Police has directed all tactical units, intelligence assets, and operational teams of the Command to intensify efforts toward the swift rescue of the victim and the apprehension of those responsible for the criminal act.
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. Any suspicious movements or activities should be promptly reported to the nearest police station or through established emergency channels.
The Command reassures residents of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and reiterates its determination to rid the State of criminal elements. “Efforts are being intensified across all fronts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes, while ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Ondo State,” the statement concluded.
