The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of 26 year old Miss Ogechi John, who was abducted in Owo, while also announcing the arrest of four suspects linked to the incident.
The victim was reportedly kidnapped on Monday at Gozako Filling Station along the Emure Akure Expressway when armed men arrived in an ash coloured unregistered Toyota Camry and whisked her away to an unknown location.
Following the distress alert, security operatives in collaboration with Amotekun, local hunters, and vigilante groups launched a coordinated search operation across Owo and surrounding communities. Entry and exit points were quickly secured while patrol teams combed nearby bushes and possible escape routes.
A police source disclosed that the combined efforts led to a breakthrough when the suspected getaway vehicle was discovered abandoned in a bush in Ojana, Owo.
Speaking on the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed that four suspects were taken into custody after actionable intelligence was gathered during the operation.
He explained that three of the suspects were initially arrested after being found with a motorcycle suspected to be connected to the case. The individuals identified include Friday Shola aged 27, Friday Monday aged 21, Osho Joseph aged 24, and Lawal Mariam.
According to him, one of the suspects during interrogation revealed that the abandoned Toyota Camry had earlier been handed over to a herbalist identified as Lawal Lucky, who resides on Idimepe Street in Owo and is currently on the run.
The police spokesperson further stated that sustained intelligence led operatives to the successful rescue of the victim, who has since been placed under care and is receiving necessary support.
He added that efforts are ongoing to track down other suspects who fled the scene or may have been involved in the operation.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of residents across the state and stressed that criminal activities would not be tolerated. Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and provide timely information that could assist security agencies in their work.
DSP Jimoh reiterated that the Ondo State Police Command remains determined to rid the state of criminal elements and ensure all those involved in crimes are brought to justice.
