June 14, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
A wave of fear has swept through Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State following the abduction of a traditional ruler by suspected gunmen during a violent attack on his residence.
The victim, Adeniyi Adelana, the traditional ruler (Baale) of Odo-Oriya Community, was kidnapped on Saturday night after armed assailants stormed his palace and forcefully whisked him away to an unknown destination.
According to the Ondo State Police Command, the attackers, believed to be kidnappers, invaded the palace at about 8:05 p.m. under the cover of darkness before escaping through a nearby bush path with the monarch.
During the attack, the ruler’s wife sustained a gunshot wound to her right hand after she was reportedly shot by the gunmen. She was rescued and rushed to a medical facility, where she is currently receiving treatment and responding positively.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that security agencies have launched an intensive search-and-rescue operation to secure the monarch’s release.
According to the police, tactical teams, intelligence operatives, and other security personnel have been deployed to comb surrounding forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes in a bid to locate the kidnappers and rescue the victim unharmed.
The Commissioner of Police has also directed all operational units to intensify efforts aimed at ensuring the safe return of the traditional ruler and bringing those responsible for the attack to justice.
The latest abduction adds to growing concerns over insecurity in Ondo State, where cases of kidnapping, armed attacks, and violent crimes have continued to increase in recent months.
Security records show that several communities across Owo, Akure North, Ose, and other local government areas have experienced repeated attacks by armed groups, with residents increasingly calling for stronger security measures and government intervention.
The incident follows a series of recent kidnappings and attacks in the state, including the abduction of health workers, community residents, and the destruction of property by armed gangs.
As security forces intensify rescue efforts, residents remain anxious over the fate of the abducted monarch and the worsening security situation across the state.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available.
