The rising wave of insecurity in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, came into sharp focus on Monday after suspected bandits invaded a residential estate and abducted three persons.
The assailants, said to be over 15 in number, stormed Ipojo Golden Estate in the Oke-Eri area of the town around 7pm, catching residents unawares.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that the attackers, armed with sophisticated weapons, forcefully gained entry into a residence, ransacked the building and whisked away two women and a man.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that during the operation, the gunmen reportedly shot a woman while retreating into a nearby forest, heightening panic across the neighbourhood.
Residents said the attackers, who were not masked except for one individual, also attempted to break into another house but failed.
The head of the affected family, said to be a government employee, was reportedly away on official duty when the incident occurred.
A community leader, Kehinde (surname withheld), described the development as shocking, noting that the estate had previously enjoyed relative peace.
“This is a serious concern for all of us. We never expected such an incident in this environment. Government and security agencies must act swiftly to restore confidence and ensure the safe return of the victims,” he said.
Also speaking, the head of the affected family, Yesiru Badewa, expressed anguish over the abduction, revealing that one of the victims was ill.
“This has devastated us. One of those taken is sick, and we are worried her condition may deteriorate in captivity. We appeal to the authorities and kind-hearted Nigerians to come to our aid,” he said.
Residents lamented that the attack had triggered widespread fear, forcing many to restrict movement and daily activities.
Responding, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ogun State Police Command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed that the command had launched a coordinated operation to rescue the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.
“The Ogun State Police Command is fully aware of the incident at Ipojo Golden Estate, Oke-Eri, Ijebu Ode, and has activated necessary tactical and intelligence responses aimed at rescuing the victims and tracking down the perpetrators,” he said.
He added that the command remained resolute and proactive in combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
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