A fierce gun battle erupted in Owo town, Ondo State, on Sunday night as operatives of the Ondo State Police Command foiled a daring attempt by a six-man armed kidnap gang to abduct Pastor Taiwo Taiwo, Chairman of Ojana New Area.
The timely intervention prevented what could have been another high-profile kidnapping in the region, with the pastor and his family rescued unharmed.
How the Attack Unfolded
At about 7:05 pm, the police received a distress call that armed kidnappers had stormed Pastor Taiwo Taiwo’s residence with the clear intention of abducting him. The Divisional Police Officer of B Division, Owo, quickly mobilised a patrol team and rushed to the scene.
Upon arrival, the operatives encountered the heavily armed assailants, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. The superior tactical response and determination of the police forced the criminals to abandon their mission and flee into the surrounding bush.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday. He said:
“Acting promptly on the information, the Divisional Police Officer, B Division, Owo, mobilised and led a patrol team to the scene. Upon arrival, the operatives encountered the armed assailants, leading to an exchange of gunfire. The superior tactical response and determination of the police operatives forced the criminals to retreat into the surrounding bush, abandoning their plan.”
The intended victim, Pastor Taiwo Taiwo, and his family members were successfully rescued unharmed and have been relocated to a safer location for enhanced security and protection.
Growing Insecurity Concerns in Ondo
This latest incident adds to the rising cases of kidnapping and violent crime in parts of Ondo State. Owo and its environs have witnessed several high-profile abductions and attacks in recent times, raising fears among residents and religious leaders.
The swift action by the police has been commended by many, but it also highlights the increasing boldness of criminal elements who now target clerics and community leaders.
Security agencies have assured the public that manhunts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and bring them to justice.
Source: Punch / Ondo State Police Command
