Fear in Ondo as gunmen invade church, abduct six worshippers

Suspected gunmen have abducted six worshippers during an early morning service at a branch of the Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The attack reportedly occurred in the early hours of Wednesday while members of the church were holding a vigil service.

The latest abduction comes just days after unidentified assailants kidnapped a couple at Ilu-Abo community in Akure North Local Government Area, raising fresh concerns over rising insecurity across the state.

Police authorities confirmed the incident, saying it happened at about 12:50 a.m. According to the command’s spokesperson, Jimoh Abayomi, security operatives swiftly moved to the area after receiving a distress call.

He said officers of the command, working alongside personnel of the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, immediately launched a coordinated operation to rescue the victims.

The police spokesperson disclosed that one of the abducted worshippers has been rescued, while a suspect connected to the crime has been arrested.

According to him, the suspect has provided useful information that is assisting ongoing investigations.

He assured residents that security agencies were intensifying efforts to secure the release of the remaining victims and arrest other members of the gang.

Abayomi appealed to residents to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information that could aid the rescue operation.

The incident is the latest in a series of violent attacks reported in parts of Ondo State in recent months, heightening fears among residents about the deteriorating security situation.