In response to the brazen attack by armed bandits on passengers in the Akunnu Akoko area of Ondo State, the Ondo State Police Command has ordered the deployment of specialized units to rescue the victims.
According to reports, the incident occurred over the weekend as the travellers, on their way to Abuja via Ondo State, were ambushed on the lone road connecting Akunu Akoko and Iyere, which border villages with Kogi State. The assailants targeted a bus prominently displaying the GUO motors logo, resulting in the tragic death of the driver. Notably, a young girl suspected to be the daughter of one of the abducted passengers was left behind by the kidnappers, possibly to expedite their escape.
A joint team comprising police, soldiers, and local hunters swiftly arrived at the scene, initiating a thorough search through the surrounding bushes. Despite their concerted efforts, no trace of the kidnappers has been uncovered.
Police Public Relations Officer (PRO), Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, released a statement on Sunday confirming the deployment of personnel from various tactical units, including the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad, to the affected area. The primary objective is the rescue of the victims and the potential arrest of the suspects.
“The command urges the people of the state and the general motoring public not to panic, emphasizing that this incident is an isolated case and does not reflect the overall security status of the state,” stated Odunlami-Omisanya.
Meanwhile, the Amotekun Corps has also mobilized its forces to actively participate in the ongoing efforts to rescue the abducted passengers. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies is indicative of a collective determination to ensure the safety of citizens and swiftly bring the perpetrators to justice.
