SUNTV Global Channel
January 28, 2026 | News
Gunmen have abducted a pregnant woman in Ayede community, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State, raising fresh concerns over the deteriorating security situation in the area.
The incident occurred at about 7:40 p.m. on Tuesday near the Alagbaka Extension axis of the community, according to eyewitness accounts.
Sources told SUNTV Global Channel that the victim, identified as Mrs. Mary Jesulayomi, was forcefully seized by the assailants and taken to an unknown location.
An eyewitness, who spoke via text message, said the attackers stormed the area suddenly, causing panic among residents.
“A kidnap case occurred yesterday around 7:40 p.m. at Ayede community near Alagbaka Extension, Akure, where one Mrs. Mary Jesulayomi, a pregnant woman, was captured and taken away,” the source said.
The eyewitness further disclosed that the gunmen also abducted an 85-year-old woman, Mrs. Ogunleye Mese, but later released her. However, her husband, Pa Ogunleye Mese, aged 90, sustained injuries during the attack.
“Mrs. Ogunleye Mese was also kidnapped but later released, while her husband, a 90-year-old man, was injured in the process,” the source added.
Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the police had deployed tactical operatives to the area and launched a manhunt for the perpetrators.
“Upon receipt of the report, the command deployed tactical teams to the scene. Efforts are ongoing to rescue the victim and arrest those responsible,” Jimoh said.
The abduction has thrown residents of Ayede community into fear, with many calling on the state government and security agencies to urgently strengthen security presence in the area.
The incident comes just days after a school proprietress was kidnapped at Ilu-Abo, also in Akure North Local Government Area, where three other persons were reportedly injured during the attack.
Residents say the recurring cases of kidnapping and violent crimes have heightened anxiety, warning that criminal activities are becoming increasingly frequent across the local government area.
