The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of a 61-year-old woman abducted in Owo and the recovery of her stolen vehicle, following a gun duel with suspected kidnappers.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday in Akure, Ondo State, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the incident occurred in the early hours of June 23, 2026, when armed men invaded the victim’s home around 2:50 a.m. and whisked her away.
The attackers also stole her Toyota Matrix during the operation.
DSP Jimoh said police operatives, acting on distress information, immediately launched a coordinated pursuit led by the Divisional Police Officer in the area.
He explained that the suspects were later intercepted at the outskirts of Ojana Phase 3, where a fierce exchange of gunfire broke out between the police team and the armed gang.
According to him, the operatives overpowered the suspects, forcing them to abandon the victim and flee into nearby bushes.
The police spokesperson added that some of the fleeing suspects were believed to have sustained gunshot injuries.
The statement further noted that the rescued victim was safely recovered alive, while her stolen vehicle was also retrieved at the scene.
Jimoh disclosed that exhibits found at the location included expended cartridges, a torchlight, and a sandal suspected to belong to one of the attackers. He added that the items are now part of ongoing investigations.
He said the case has been transferred to a specialised investigative unit in Akure, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects and bring all those involved to justice.
