Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have invaded a Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, abducting six worshippers during an early-morning service.
The incident comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of the state. Four days earlier, gunmen reportedly abducted a couple in Ilu-Abo community in Akure North Local Government Area. It also follows the recent killing of the traditional ruler of Agamo community, Oba Kehinde Jacob Faledon, during a failed abduction attempt.
Sources said the latest attack occurred around 12:50 a.m. on Wednesday along the Uso–Owo Expressway, throwing the community into panic.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants stormed the church while worshippers were praying and forcefully took six of them to an unknown destination.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Jimoh Abayomi, said operatives of the Ondo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, swiftly launched a rescue operation.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations,” he said.
Abayomi disclosed that one of the abducted worshippers had been rescued, while a suspect had been arrested in connection with the attack.
“As a result of sustained joint efforts, one of the kidnapped victims has been successfully rescued. Additionally, one suspect linked to the incident has been arrested and has made useful statements that are assisting ongoing investigations,” he added.
He assured that security operations were ongoing to secure the release of the remaining victims and apprehend all those responsible.
“Security operations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the apprehension of all perpetrators involved,” Abayomi stated.
The police urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid ongoing operations.
Fidelis David in Akure
Follow us on:
