Panic gripped residents of Uso community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State after suspected gunmen abducted six worshippers during a midnight church service.
The victims were reportedly seized in the early hours of Wednesday at a branch of the Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, throwing the quiet community into fear and uncertainty.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the attack occurred at about 12:50 a.m. on February 25.
According to him, the assailants stormed the church while members were holding a service and whisked six worshippers to an unknown destination.
“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations,” Jimoh stated.
He added that sustained joint security efforts have led to the rescue of one of the abducted worshippers, while operations are ongoing to secure the safe release of the remaining victims.
The latest abduction comes barely four days after gunmen kidnapped a couple at Ilu-Abo in Akure North Local Government Area, heightening concerns over the resurgence of violent attacks in parts of Ondo State.
Residents have called on security agencies to intensify patrols and strengthen intelligence gathering to curb the growing insecurity in the state.