The Ondo State Police Command has rescued the abducted staff of the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Ayodeji Adebayo Akinsero.

 

 

Akinsero was abducted by armed men on Thursday, August 28, 2025 at his residence in Upenme community, Owo Local Government Area.

 

 

The spokesperson of the command, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, who confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday, August 30, said the victim was rescued unhurt following a well-coordinated operation involving officers from the Owo Area Command, Divisional Police Headquarters, and members of the Upeme Vigilante Group.

 

 

Acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, the joint team launched an intensive manhunt for the kidnappers, combing the surrounding forests and leveraging intelligence provided by the local community.

 

 

Confronted with overwhelming pressure during a gun duel with the rescue team, the kidnappers abandoned their captive and fled. Mr. Akinsero was immediately taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, for medical examination and has since reunited with his family.

 

“The Ondo State Police Command wishes to inform the public of the successful rescue of Mr. Ayodeji Adebayo Akinsero, who was kidnapped on Thursday, 28th August 2025, by unknown armed men in Owo Local Government Area,” the statement read.

 

“Upon receiving the report of the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc+, mnips, immediately gave a clear directive that the victim must be rescued at all cost. Acting on this directive, the Area Command in Owo, working in synergy with the Divisional Police, operatives of the Command, and the Upeme Vigilante Group, launched a coordinated operation.

 

“The joint team, working tirelessly and in close collaboration, deployed credible intelligence and embarked on aggressive bush combing operations throughout Thursday and into Friday night. Their sustained efforts paid off when the kidnappers, confronted in a gun duel, were forced to flee, abandoning the victim. He was rescued unhurt without any ransom being paid, immediately rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, for medical attention, and has since been joyfully reunited with his family.

 

“The Command commends the gallantry and resilience of the Police operatives and the Upeme Vigilante Group, whose collaboration and sacrifices were instrumental to this success. The invaluable role of members of the public, who provided timely and actionable information, is also greatly acknowledged.

 

“The Ondo State Police Command further recognizes the morale-boosting directives and encouragement of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, whose leadership continues to strengthen operational effectiveness. We equally appreciate the consistent support of the Ondo State Government in the collective fight against crime and criminality.

 

The Commissioner of Police assures the good people of Ondo State that the Command remains unwavering in its determination to rid the State of all criminal elements.

 

In recent times, perpetrators of kidnappings and other violent crimes have either been arrested or neutralized, with victims rescued unharmed. This latest operation once again demonstrates the Command’s resolve.

 

“We will not rest on our oars but will continue to collaborate with state and non-state actors to guarantee the safety and security of all law-abiding citizens. For any inquiries, please contact: 09060588958.”