AMOTEKUN RESCUES FIVE KIDNAP VICTIMS IN AKURE AMID CONFUSION OVER HEALTH CENTRE ATTACK

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun, successfully rescued five individuals in two separate operations within Akure South Local Government Area, responding to escalating security concerns in the state capital.

Corps Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye confirmed the successful rescue, detailing that a 45-year-old man and his 15-year-old son were abducted near Pelebe, on the outskirts of Oda–Akure Road, between 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. The victims were safely recovered around 1:00 a.m. by the Rapid Response Squad following an encounter with the kidnappers.
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Adeleye also disclosed that three health workers, who had been abducted in a separate incident, regained their freedom at approximately 4:30 a.m. The rescued individuals are currently receiving medical attention at a confidential health facility.

The Corps Commander reassured residents that “the safety of lives and property remains a top priority for the state government,” emphasising the importance of public cooperation with security agencies through timely and credible information.

These developments occur against a backdrop of confusion surrounding an earlier reported attack on a health centre in the Oke Ijebu area of Akure. Initial reports indicated a kidnapping incident involving the abduction of six health personnel; however, the Ondo State Police Command has clarified that the situation was a case of armed robbery.

In a statement from Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abayomi Jimoh, it was reported that the incident took place around 2:00 a.m., when three armed suspects invaded the health facility in Oke Ijebu. The assailants, equipped with a pump-action rifle and cutlasses, accessed the premises by scaling the perimeter fence.

During the operation, three staff members on duty were reportedly robbed of personal belongings, including mobile phones and a Point of Sale terminal. The suspects were seen arriving in an unregistered black Toyota Venza, which was parked along the main road prior to the attack.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the victims were taken towards the Olokuta axis along Ondo Road, where they were forced to remove their clothing before being abandoned in the bush. Fortunately, they received assistance from personnel of the Nigerian Correctional Service before returning to safety.

Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, visited the scene and has ordered a comprehensive, intelligence-led investigation into the incident. The Command has deployed tactical and surveillance teams to track down the perpetrators and has intensified patrols across the area.

The recent incidents have sparked heightened public awareness of security issues in Akure, with residents calling for ongoing and coordinated efforts to combat criminal activities and ensure community safety.