Ondo CP Confirms Breakthrough in Uso Church Abduction, 13 Prosecuted for APC Congress Violence
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, has confirmed the arrest of 11 suspects in connection with the abduction of worshippers at a Celestial Church in Uso community.
Addressing journalists at the state command headquarters in Akure, Lawal said the arrests were made through a joint operation involving the police, the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes.
The abduction, which occurred during a church service in Uso, led to the kidnapping of six worshippers. According to the police commissioner, one of the victims has since been rescued, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining five.
“So far, 11 suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident,” Lawal said. “Investigations are ongoing to dismantle the criminal network responsible for the attack.”
In the wake of the incident, the CP called on religious leaders across the state to reassess security arrangements, particularly during late-night services.
He urged churches, mosques and other worship centres to comply with the state government’s directive on the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras and to notify security agencies ahead of large gatherings.
Lawal noted that such measures would help reduce vulnerability to criminal attacks amid prevailing security challenges.
13 Charged Over Idanre APC Congress Violence.
The police chief also provided an update on the violence that erupted during the ward congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Idanre.
The attack, which claimed three lives, led to the arrest of several suspects. Lawal confirmed that 13 individuals have been charged to court in connection with the incident.
He added that investigations were continuing to identify and apprehend other persons involved.
Reviewing the command’s activities from January to date, Lawal said the police had recorded arrests across offences including kidnapping, armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms and homicide.
He disclosed that several firearms, ammunition, vehicles and motorcycles were recovered during various operations, while eight victims were rescued.
The commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders to curb criminal activities in the state.
