Panic and outrage have gripped residents of Uso community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State following the abduction of six worshippers by armed men who invaded a Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) during a midnight service.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Wednesday at about 12:50 a.m., as congregants gathered for their routine early-morning worship at the church located in Uso, a quiet town in Owo LGA.
The latest incident adds to the growing wave of insecurity in the state, coming barely four days after gunmen kidnapped a couple at Ilu-Abo community in Akure North Local Government Area. Residents say the renewed spate of attacks has heightened fears across several communities since the beginning of the year.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Jimoh Abayomi, disclosed that security operatives swiftly moved into action upon receiving distress calls.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations,” Abayomi stated.
He revealed that one of the abducted worshippers has since been rescued through sustained joint security efforts. In addition, one suspect linked to the attack has been arrested and is currently assisting investigators.
“As a result of sustained joint efforts, one of the kidnapped victims has been successfully rescued. Additionally, one suspect linked to the incident has been arrested and has made useful statements that are assisting ongoing investigations,” he said.
The police spokesperson assured residents that operations are ongoing to secure the safe release of the remaining victims and apprehend all those responsible for the attack.
“Security operations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the apprehension of all perpetrators involved,” Abayomi added.
