Ondo: Six worshippers kidnapped during church service

From Bamigbola Gbolagunte, Akure

Six worshippers at a Celestial Church of Christ located along the Uso/Owo expressway in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State were on Wednesday kidnapped by unknown gunmen while worshipping in the church.

The state police command confirmed the abduction in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abayomi Jimoh.

The PPRO said the incident happened in the early hours of the day.

Jimoh explained that the victims were reportedly taken to an unknown destination by the gunmen.

The PPRO said that upon receiving the report, operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations.

“As a result of sustained joint efforts, one of the kidnapped victims has been successfully rescued.

“Additionally, one suspected informant linked to the incident has been arrested and currently assisting with ongoing investigations.

“Investigations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the apprehension of all perpetrators involved,” he added.

The police spokesperson urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and actionable information that may assist the security agents in their ongoing operations.