Panic in Ondo as Gunmen Abduct Woman and Open Fire on Businessman, Mother and Child
Akure, Ondo State — Residents of a community in Ondo State were thrown into panic after gunmen launched a violent attack, kidnapping a woman and shooting three people, including a businessman, a mother, and her young child.
The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday evening as the victims were returning home. Witnesses said the gunmen, who were heavily armed and masked, emerged from a nearby bush and opened fire indiscriminately, causing villagers to flee for safety.
According to community sources, the attackers abducted a woman whose identity has not yet been released, dragging her into the forest before speeding away. In the process, they shot a local businessman who was driving nearby, as well as a woman and her child who were walking along the road.
The businessman and the mother-and-child duo were rushed to a hospital in the area, where they are currently receiving treatment. Medical personnel confirmed that all three sustained gunshot injuries, with the child said to be in critical condition.
Residents described the attack as one of the most frightening incidents in recent weeks, noting that cases of kidnapping and armed assaults have been rising despite ongoing security operations.
Community leaders have called on authorities to intensify patrols and rescue efforts, insisting that the abducted woman must be found quickly to prevent further tragedy. They also urged the state government to deploy more security personnel to rural areas vulnerable to attacks.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that officers have been deployed to the area and a manhunt is ongoing to track and apprehend the suspects. Police added that efforts are also underway to locate and rescue the kidnapped woman.
The attack has once again raised concerns about growing insecurity in parts of southwestern Nigeria, with residents appealing for stronger protection against increasingly bold criminal gangs.
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