ONDO, Nigeria – The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of a staff member of the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Mr Ayodeji Akesinro, who was abducted from his residence in Upenme community, Owo Local Government Area, on Thursday evening.
His abduction triggered outrage among health professionals, with the Ondo chapter of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria condemning the incident and urging authorities to secure his release.
The command Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said in a statement on Saturday that Akesinro was rescued unharmed following a joint operation by police officers and local vigilantes.
He disclosed that the victim was freed after a gun battle with the kidnappers inside the forest.
“The joint team, working tirelessly and in close collaboration, deployed credible intelligence and embarked on aggressive bush-combing operations through 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,” Ayanlade said, adding that no ransom was paid.
Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the operatives for their swift response and reassured residents of ongoing efforts to combat violent crime.
“In recent times, perpetrators of kidnappings and other violent crimes have either been arrested or neutralised, with victims rescued unharmed. This latest operation once again demonstrates the command’s resolve. We will not rest on our oars but continue collaborating with state and non-state actors to guarantee the safety of all citizens,” he said.
