The police command in Ondo says it rescued a 26-year-old woman kidnap victim and arrested four suspects linked to the abduction in Owo.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the command’s spokesperson, in a statement on Tuesday, said the kidnapping was reported on Monday.

Mr Jimoh said the victim, Ogechi John, was forcibly taken away at Gozako Filling Station along Emure-Akure Expressway.

He explained that the suspects reportedly arrived in an ash unregistered Toyota Camry before abducting the victim.

Mr Jimoh said the command’s rescue operation was carried out alongside Amotekun, local hunters and vigilantes. According to him, the strategic entry and exit points within Owo and adjoining communities were secured, while multiple patrol and tactical teams were deployed to comb nearby bushes.

“The prompt and coordinated response yielded immediate results as the suspected getaway vehicle was later discovered abandoned in a bush at Ojana, Owo.

“Acting on intelligence gathered during the operation, police operatives arrested three suspects found in possession of a lady’s motorcycle, believed to be connected to the ongoing investigation.

“The suspects were identified as Friday Shola, 27; Friday Monday, 21; Osho Joseph, 24, and one other.

“During preliminary interrogation, one of the suspects disclosed that the abandoned Toyota Camry had earlier been handed over to a herbalist identified as Lawal Lucky of Idimepe Street, Owo, who is currently at large.

“Sustained operational pressure and intelligence-driven efforts by the police culminated in the successful rescue of the victim, John. She has been rescued safely and is currently receiving the necessary support while investigators continue to process relevant evidence,” he said.

Mr Jimoh explained that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and identify any other persons who may have played a role in the crime, and ensure the successful prosecution of all culpable persons.

(NAN)