Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers have shot a tomato farmer and abducted his wife during a late-night attack in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the incident saying the attack occurred along Oda Road in the city.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement, condemning the incident and assuring residents that efforts were underway to rescue the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.
According to Jimoh, the assailants stormed the residence of the farmer, identified as Adesida Daniel, in the Isagba Community along Oda Road before carrying out the attack.
“The command strongly condemns the criminal act carried out by suspected kidnappers who invaded the residence of one Adesida Daniel, a tomato farmer in Isagba Community, along Oda Road,” Jimoh said.
He explained that the farmer sustained a gunshot injury while trying to resist the attackers who abducted his wife during the invasion.
“During the incident, the victim sustained a gunshot injury to his right hand while attempting to resist the assailants who had reportedly abducted his wife,” he stated.
The police spokesperson added that operatives quickly responded after receiving a distress call from the area.
“Upon receiving the distress call, police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene, ensured the injured victim was rescued to the Police Clinic for medical attention, and secured the area,” Jimoh added.
He further revealed that the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State had ordered intensified security operations to track down the kidnappers.
According to him, the directive includes increased patrols, bush-combing operations, and intelligence gathering across the affected community and neighbouring areas.
“The command assures residents that no effort will be spared in tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice,” Jimoh said.
He also urged residents to remain alert and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
“Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or individuals to the nearest police station,” he added.
The latest incident has heightened security concerns in parts of Ondo State, where cases of kidnapping and attacks on farmers have been reported in recent years, particularly along rural roads and farming communities.
Security agencies have repeatedly intensified patrols and bush-combing operations in affected areas in response to the growing threat.
