The Ondo State Police Command rescued kidnap victim Ayodeji Akinsero in Owo without ransom after a fierce gun battle with abductors, vowing to intensify its fight against criminals
Ondo Police Rescue Kidnap Victim Unhurt, Vow to Intesify War Against Criminals
The Ondo State Police Command has announced the successful rescue of Mr. Ayodeji Adebayo Akinsero, who was kidnapped on Thursday, August 28, 2025, in Owo Local Government Area by armed men.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, the Command confirmed that Akinsero was freed unhurt after a coordinated operation involving police operatives, the Owo Area Command, and members of the Upeme Vigilante Group.
According to the statement, the rescue followed a directive from the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc+, mnips, who ordered that the victim be rescued “at all cost.” Acting swiftly, ACP Farouk Olu’ Raheem led the Owo Area Command in collaboration with local divisions, launching aggressive bush combing operations based on credible intelligence.
The sustained operation forced the kidnappers into a gun battle. Confronted with superior firepower, the suspects abandoned the victim and fled. Akinsero was rescued without ransom, rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, for medical evaluation, and has since been reunited with his family.
The Police Command commended the bravery of its operatives and the Upeme Vigilante Group, stressing that community collaboration and timely information were crucial to the success of the operation.
CP Lawal also acknowledged the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, describing his directives as “morale-boosting,” while expressing appreciation to the Ondo State Government for its consistent support in the fight against crime.
“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,” the Commissioner said.
The Ondo Police Command reaffirmed its determination to take the war to the domains of criminal gangs, emphasizing that perpetrators of kidnappings and violent crimes in the state have continued to be arrested, neutralized, or forced to abandon their victims. Read More
