Gunmen have attacked the Celestial Church of Christ at Uso, in the Owo LGA of Ondo, kidnapping five worshippers.

A community leader, Babatunde Odeyemi, told Peoples Gazette that one of the kidnapped worshippers escaped shortly after the abduction.

The assailants reportedly stormed the church, located along the Owo/Benin Expressway.

Confirming the kidnapping, the spokesperson for the police command, Jimoh Abayomi, said the kidnapping took place in the early hours of Tuesday.

Mr Abayomi disclosed that six worshippers were kidnapped.

“Upon receiving the report, the operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilance groups, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations.

“Additionally, one suspect linked to the incident has been arrested and has made useful statements that are assisting with ongoing investigations.

“Security operations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the apprehension of all perpetrators involved,” the officer said.

The police spokesman urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and actionable information that may assist ongoing operations.

Recently, a couple, Jamiu Olawale and his wife, were attacked and kidnapped at their residence at Ilu Abo in Akure North LGA.