Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Residents of Owo in Ondo State were thrown into panic on Sunday evening after gunshots rang out during a confrontation between police operatives and suspected kidnappers who allegedly attempted to abduct a community leader at his residence.
The incident occurred at about 7:05 p.m. on Sunday, June 21, 2026, in Owo, the headquarters of Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State. According to the Ondo State Police Command, six suspected kidnappers invaded the residence of Pastor Taiwo Taiwo, Chairman of Ojana New Area, with the intention of abducting him. The command's spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed the details in a statement issued on Monday, June 22, 2026.
Police authorities said the command received a distress call alerting officers to the presence and activities of armed men at the pastor’s residence.
Following the report, the Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, swiftly mobilised a patrol team to the scene.
The officers reportedly moved immediately to the location in an effort to prevent the suspected abduction.
According to the police, the responding team encountered the armed suspects shortly after arriving at the residence.
The confrontation subsequently escalated into an exchange of gunfire between the police operatives and the suspected kidnappers.
Residents in parts of the community were said to have heard gunshots as the security operatives engaged the attackers.
The police stated that the tactical response mounted by the officers disrupted the plans of the suspected kidnappers.
Faced with resistance from the security personnel, the suspects reportedly retreated from the area.
Authorities said the criminals fled into nearby bushes after abandoning their mission.
The police did not report any casualties among officers, residents or members of the targeted family.
Pastor Taiwo Taiwo and his family members were successfully rescued during the operation.
According to the police, the intended victim and his relatives were not harmed during the incident.
Security officials subsequently relocated the family to a safer location as a precautionary measure.
The police said the relocation was necessary to ensure their continued safety following the attempted attack.
DSP Abayomi Jimoh described the operation as a demonstration of the command’s commitment to responding promptly to security threats.
He noted that officers acted swiftly after receiving information regarding the activities of the suspected kidnappers.
The spokesperson commended the personnel involved in the operation for their rapid response and professionalism.
Police authorities have launched efforts to track down the fleeing suspects.
Security operatives are expected to continue search operations in surrounding areas to locate and apprehend those involved.
The command has not yet announced any arrests in connection with the attempted kidnapping.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the identities of the suspects and establish whether they are linked to other criminal activities in the area.
Kidnapping has remained a major security concern in several parts of Nigeria, prompting increased security operations by law enforcement agencies.
Communities across various states have continued to call for stronger measures to combat abduction and related crimes.
Owo has experienced security challenges in recent years, leading authorities to strengthen surveillance and response mechanisms.
The latest incident has renewed concerns among residents about the activities of criminal groups operating within and around the area.
Local leaders have repeatedly urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Police authorities also encouraged members of the public to continue providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Security experts have noted that timely intelligence and community cooperation often play critical roles in preventing criminal attacks.
The successful rescue of the intended victim and his family prevented what could have become another kidnapping case in the region.
Residents have expressed relief that the intervention of security operatives stopped the abduction attempt before it was carried out.
The Ondo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property throughout the state.
Authorities assured residents that efforts would continue to identify, track and prosecute individuals involved in criminal activities.
The command further urged citizens not to hesitate to report security threats through established emergency channels.
As investigations continue, security personnel remain on alert in Owo and surrounding communities to prevent further incidents and reassure residents of their safety.
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