Tension gripped residents of Ilesa, Osun State, on Saturday following reports of a kidnapping incident along a major route linking the town to neighbouring communities.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, reportedly involved suspected kidnappers intercepting travellers on the road and whisking at least one person into the forest.
Eyewitnesses said that the gunmen blocked the road briefly, creating panic among motorists and commuters before fleeing with their victim.
A commercial driver who narrowly escaped the attack said the assailants emerged suddenly from the bush.
“They came out with guns and stopped vehicles. Everybody was confused. Some people turned back, while others abandoned their vehicles and ran,” he said.
The attack triggered anxiety across Ilesa and surrounding areas, with many residents expressing fears over the growing spate of abductions along highways in the state.
Sources said security operatives later arrived at the scene and commenced a search operation in nearby forests believed to be hideouts for criminal gangs.
Confirming the development, the Osun State Police Command said it had deployed officers to the area and was working with other security outfits to ensure the victim’s safe rescue.
“The command has intensified patrols in and around Ilesa following the report. Our men are on ground and investigations are ongoing,” the police spokesperson said.
Residents, however, criticised what they described as inadequate security presence on major roads, calling on the government to take urgent steps to curb the activities of kidnappers.
A trader in Ilesa said, “This road is very important for business. If people are afraid to travel, it will affect everyone.”
The incident adds to growing concerns over security in parts of Osun State, where cases of kidnapping and armed attacks have been recorded in recent months, particularly along highways and isolated areas.
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