A massive search-and-rescue operation is currently underway in Ondo State following the violent abduction of a local community leader, Chief Adeniyi Adelana, on Friday night.
The 60-year-old traditional ruler, who serves as the Baale of Ode Oriya village in the Owo Local Government Area, was taken by a gang of heavily armed men who also shot his wife during the assault.
According to local sources, a group of about six gunmen stormed the monarch’s residence at approximately 8:00 PM on Friday, June 13, 2026. Taking advantage of the nighttime cover, the attackers breached the premises and forcefully dragged Chief Adelana out of his home, retreating into a nearby bush path.
During the chaotic invasion, the traditional ruler’s wife was shot in her right hand.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Sunday through its spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh. Upon receiving a distress call, a team led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Owo’s ‘B’ Division rushed to the scene.
“A full-scale search-and-rescue operation has since been launched, with police operatives combing surrounding forests, bush paths, and suspected escape routes to locate and rescue the abducted community leader,” Jimoh stated. He added that tactical units have been deployed to neighboring communities to tighten the dragnet around the kidnappers.
The Baale’s wife was immediately rescued by responding teams and rushed to a nearby hospital. Authorities report that she is currently responding well to treatment.
While the violent abduction has sparked heavy tension and anxiety among Ode Oriya residents, the police command has urged the public to stay calm. Citizens are being encouraged to assist the investigation by providing any timely, credible information that could lead to the rescue of the community leader and the arrest of his captors.
