Suspected gunmen on Tuesday night abducted the Vice-Chairman of Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State, Mr Debo Faroumbi, after attacking Ora-Igbomina community and overpowering security efforts to secure his release.
The assailants were said to have stormed the town, firing sporadically and creating panic among residents before whisking away four persons, including the council vice-chairman.
Residents disclosed that the attackers also abducted two Fulani women and another resident during the operation.
However, military personnel stationed in the area reportedly responded swiftly to distress calls and engaged the gunmen in a pursuit that extended into nearby forests.
The security pressure was said to have forced the kidnappers to release three of the captives, while Faroumbi remained in their custody.
Confirming the incident on Wednesday, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, said security agencies had launched a coordinated operation to rescue the abducted official and apprehend those behind the attack.
Ojelabi said, “Some unidentified gunmen invaded Ora-Igbomina in Ifedayo Local Government Area and abducted four persons. Following military engagement, three of the victims were rescued.
“The attackers, however, escaped with Debo Faroumbi into the forest. The police and other security agencies have commenced a manhunt for the suspects.”
The police spokesman assured residents that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe release of the council vice-chairman and restore calm in the community.
The incident has renewed concerns over the security situation in parts of the state, with residents calling for intensified surveillance and security presence to curb recurring cases of kidnapping.
As of the time of filing this report, security operatives were continuing search-and-rescue operations in the area.
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