Ten-man gang on Friday morning abducted 20 travelers along the Osi/Obbo Ayegunle road in Ekiti Local Government Area, Kwara State.
The group intercepted drivers of three vehicles, including a Toyota Hiace, heading towards Ekiti State. The gunmen forced the passengers into the forest, demanding ransom.
Local vigilante teams and police officers from the anti-kidnapping unit carried out a successful rescue operation late Friday evening. The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the rescue, noting that the victims’ bags and personal belongings were left scattered on the road.
The Kwara State Police Spokesperson, Ejire Adeyemi Adetoun, provided details in a statement: “The Kwara State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of an incident of abduction and successful rescue operation carried out on 16th August 2024.” The statement continued, “At about 1500 hours, information was received that gunmen numbering about ten had ambushed three vehicles along the Osi/Obbo-Aiyegunle road. The gunmen abducted 20 passengers from these commercial vehicles and forcefully led them into the surrounding bush.”
The police swiftly mobilized divisional patrol teams and local vigilantes to search the dense forest between Obbo-Aiyegunle and Obbo-Ile. “Through the concerted efforts of our police detectives, vigilantes, and community members, the team successfully rescued the 20 victims. It is with great relief that we report the safe return of these individuals,” Adetoun stated.
Three of the rescued travelers sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and have been taken to the hospital for urgent medical treatment. The statement wished them a speedy recovery and assured the public of ongoing efforts to capture the perpetrators.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya, psc(+), wishes to assure the public that the search for the perpetrators is still ongoing,” the statement noted. “Our men are diligently combing the area, determined to bring the criminals to justice. We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and travelers within Kwara State.”
The police commended the bravery and swift response of their officers and local vigilantes, emphasizing the successful rescue without further casualties among the victims. The public is urged to remain calm and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through emergency lines.
