Gunmen abduct worshippers during midnight service in Ondo
Suspected armed men attacked a parish of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, abducting worshippers during a midnight service. The incident
Suspected armed men attacked a parish of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, abducting worshippers during a midnight service.
The incident occurred late Tuesday night when the assailants reportedly stormed the church located along the busy Owo/Benin Expressway and forcefully took congregants to an undisclosed location.
Community sources said the attackers struck unexpectedly during the programme. While five worshippers were initially reported abducted, one victim later escaped shortly after the incident.
Confirming the development on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, stated that six worshippers were initially taken by the gunmen.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations,” he said.
Abayomi added that sustained joint efforts led to the rescue of one victim and the arrest of a suspect in connection with the attack.
"Additionally, one suspect linked to the incident has been arrested and has made useful statements that are assisting the ongoing investigation.
"Security operations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the apprehension of all perpetrators involved," he added.
He urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while providing credible and actionable information to security agencies.
The latest abduction comes amid rising insecurity in parts of the state.
A few days ago, a couple, Jamiu Olawale and his wife, were attacked and kidnapped at the entrance of their residence in Akure North Local Government Area, sparking protests by residents over repeated kidnappings and killings in the area.
Similarly, a traditional ruler, Oba Kehinde Falodun, the Alagamo of Agamo, in Akure North Local Government Area of the state, was killed by gunmen at his palace during a foiled kidnap attempt.
Residents of the state have been expressing concerns over rising insecurity.
