Residents of Owo, Ondo State, witnessed heightened tension on Sunday night after police operatives engaged suspected kidnappers in a gun battle during an attempted abduction of a local community leader.
According to the Ondo State Police Command, the incident happened around 7:05 p.m. after officers received an emergency report alleging that armed men had invaded the residence of Pastor Taiwo Taiwo, Chairman of Ojana New Area, with plans to abduct him.
Police spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh said officers from the B Division in Owo responded immediately after receiving the alert. A patrol team led by the Divisional Police Officer was deployed to the location.
Authorities said security personnel encountered the armed suspects on arrival, leading to an exchange of gunfire. The suspects reportedly retreated into nearby bushes after facing resistance from the responding officers.
“The superior tactical response and determination of the police operatives forced the criminals to retreat into the surrounding bush, abandoning their plan,” the police statement said.
The command added that Pastor Taiwo and members of his family were rescued unharmed and later moved to a safer location as a precautionary measure.
The latest incident adds to concerns over security in parts of Ondo State, where authorities have continued efforts to curb kidnapping and violent crimes. No arrests had been announced at the time of reporting, while investigations and security operations were expected to continue in the area.
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