Bandits Launch Midnight Attack on Osun Community, Abduct Two Residents
In a brazen act of criminality, suspected bandits have once again targeted the peaceful community of Ora-Igbomina in Osun State, abducting two residents in a late-night raid. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, February 1, 2026, has sent shockwaves through the area, highlighting ongoing security challenges in regions bordering neighboring states.
Details of the Kidnapping Incident
The gunmen, believed to be kidnappers, stormed the community at approximately 11:45 p.m., taking advantage of reduced police patrols due to heavy rainfall. According to eyewitness accounts and police reports, the assailants went straight to a private residence located along Aran-Orin Road in the Papa area of Ora-Igbomina. There, they seized two individuals identified as Tayese Adeyeye and Sunday Adewumi, before fleeing the scene under the cover of darkness.
This attack is particularly alarming as it follows a similar abduction less than two months prior, when suspected bandits kidnapped a former Customs officer, Emmanuel Owolabi, from the same community. The recurrence of such incidents raises serious concerns about the safety and security of residents in this border region between Osun and Kwara States.
Police Response and Ongoing Operations
The Osun State Police Command has swiftly responded to the crisis. Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the abduction and detailed the immediate actions taken by law enforcement. "Our operatives have commenced a comprehensive search and rescue operation to locate and free the victims," Ojelabi stated. He explained that police patrols had been temporarily withdrawn due to the adverse weather conditions, which the criminals exploited to carry out their nefarious act.
Ojelabi further emphasized, "The search and rescue teams moved in immediately after the report reached us. They are currently combing the area and employing all available resources to ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals." The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to aid in the investigation.
Community Impact and Broader Implications
The abduction has left the Ora-Igbomina community in a state of fear and anxiety. Residents are calling for enhanced security measures, including increased police presence and better coordination between state security agencies to prevent future attacks. The location of the community on the boundary with Kwara State complicates security efforts, as criminals often exploit such inter-state borders to evade capture.
This incident underscores a growing trend of banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria, particularly in rural and border areas. It highlights the urgent need for:
- Strengthened intelligence gathering and sharing between states
- Improved funding and equipment for police and security forces
- Community-based security initiatives to complement official efforts
- Swift justice for perpetrators to deter future crimes
As the search continues, the families of the victims and the entire community await news of their loved ones, hoping for a positive outcome in this distressing situation.
