Night Raid in Akure North, Couple Snatched at Gunpoint

AKURE — Gunmen have abducted a couple in the Ilu-Abo community of Akure North Local Government Area, Ondo State, during a violent nighttime operation. The incident occurred at approximately 9:45 PM on Friday, just as the victims arrived home from their place of business. Armed men reportedly emerged from the dense vegetation surrounding the residence, seizing the couple before fleeing into the forest. During the assault, the attackers shot a neighbor, Mr. Patrick Ilumaro, who was resting in front of his own house. Consequently, the Akure North axis is currently gripped by a palpable sense of fear as residents lament the recurring security lapses.

The victim of the shooting is currently receiving emergency medical treatment at a nearby hospital following the targeted hit. Confirming the development on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Jimoh Abayomi, stated that a massive rescue operation is underway. Furthermore, the State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, has ordered an immediate deployment of tactical and conventional operatives to the zone. These teams have commenced a systematic “combing” of the vast forest reserves that dominate the border areas of Akure North. While it is true that security presence has increased, the kidnappers have yet to establish contact with the victims’ families.

Community leaders in Ilu-Abo have called for more permanent security outposts along the Owo-Akure highway corridor. In a related development, the “Amotekun” Corps has reportedly joined the police in the search to provide local topographical expertise. Granted, the state government has recently procured new patrol vehicles, but the “asymmetric nature” of these bush raids remains a challenge. Notably, the Ilu-Abo axis serves as a strategic bypass, making it highly attractive for mobile criminal gangs seeking quick retreats. Above all, the Police Command has urged residents to remain calm and report any suspicious movements within their neighborhoods.

Significantly, this attack mirrors a pattern of “shop-to-home” surveillance where criminals track successful business owners to their residences. Subsequently, the State Intelligence Department has been tasked with identifying potential informants who may be working within the local community. Although the search teams are working under difficult terrain conditions, the PPRO expressed confidence in a successful rescue without harm. For the residents of Ilu-Abo, the night has once again become a period of profound anxiety. Therefore, the success of the current operation will serve as a critical test for the new tactical deployments.

Lastly, the Police have promised to bring the perpetrators to justice and restore the confidence of the traumatized residents. As a result of this abduction, the call for increased rural lighting and community surveillance has gained fresh momentum. The quest for a secure Akure North depends on a seamless synergy between citizens and the state’s security architecture.