Suspected kidnappers have abducted at least seven travellers along the Benin-Owo highway in Ondo State, leaving their commercial bus abandoned by the roadside. The victims, who were traveling from the South-South region on Sunday, were accosted in the Owo/Ipele area of Ondo North Senatorial District. The gunmen forced them to stop before marching them into the bush, leaving behind their luggage and vehicle.
According to sources, concerned travellers who discovered the abandoned bus noticed that it was not properly parked, with passengers’ belongings still inside suggesting a forcible abduction. The kidnappers have since contacted the victims’ families, demanding a huge ransom and threatening to kill the hostages if their demands are not met.
Confirming the incident, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, stated that seven individuals were confirmed abducted, and security agencies are working to secure their release.
