The Ondo State Police Command has rescued a 26-year-old woman, Ogechi John, who was abducted in Owo, and arrested four suspects linked to the crime following a joint security operation.
According to the police, the victim was kidnapped on June 8, 2026, at Gozako Filling Station along the Emure–Akure Expressway by armed men who arrived in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry without registration plates before fleeing the scene.
Police spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the command immediately launched a coordinated operation involving police officers, Amotekun operatives, local hunters and vigilante groups after receiving a distress report.
Security operatives secured strategic routes in and around Owo while tactical teams searched nearby forests and possible escape paths. During the operation, the suspected getaway vehicle was discovered abandoned in a bush in Ojana, Owo.
Further intelligence-led investigations led to the arrest of three suspects who were found with a motorcycle believed to be connected to the abduction. The suspects were identified as Friday Shola, Friday Monday, Osho Joseph and Lawal Mariam.
Preliminary findings revealed that one of the suspects allegedly told investigators that the abandoned vehicle had been handed over to a herbalist identified as Lawal Lucky, who is currently on the run.
The police said sustained pressure and intelligence gathering eventually led to the successful rescue of the victim, who is now receiving necessary support.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, commended the operatives involved in the operation, describing their actions as a reflection of professionalism and dedication. He reiterated the command’s commitment to tackling crime and ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven in the state.
The command added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other suspects connected to the abduction while investigations continue.
