Ondo Police Command rescues abducted woman in Owo, arrests four suspects and recovers operational vehicle linked to the crime
The Ondo State Police Command has rescued a 26-year-old woman abducted in Owo, Ondo State, and arrested four suspects linked to the incident following a coordinated security operation on 8 June 2026.
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The victim, identified as Miss Ogechi John, was reportedly kidnapped at Gozako Filling Station along the Emure–Akure Expressway by armed men who arrived in an ash-coloured unregistered Toyota Camry.
The suspects were said to have whisked her away to an unknown destination before security operatives launched a swift response operation.
Upon receiving the distress report, the Command activated a joint operation involving police operatives, Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilante groups to track the suspects and secure the victim’s release.
Strategic checkpoints were mounted across Owo and surrounding communities while tactical teams combed nearby bushes and escape routes.
The coordinated operation led to the discovery of the suspected getaway vehicle abandoned in a bush at Ojana, Owo.
Acting on further intelligence, police operatives arrested three suspects found in possession of a lady’s motorcycle believed to be connected to the crime.
The suspects were identified as Friday Shola, 27; Friday Monday, 21; and Osho Joseph, 24. Another suspect, Lawal Mariam, was also linked to the case during investigations.
One of the arrested suspects allegedly disclosed that the abandoned Toyota Camry had been handed over to a herbalist identified as Lawal Lucky of Idimepe Street, Owo, who is currently at large.
Following sustained pressure and intelligence-led operations, the police successfully rescued Miss Ogechi John, who was found safe and has since been placed under necessary care.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing suspects and uncover other individuals involved in the crime.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, commended the officers for their professionalism and swift response, noting that the Command remains committed to eliminating criminal activity across the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to aid ongoing investigations.
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The Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all individuals involved in the kidnapping are brought to justice.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
