Kidnapped corps members freed after N5m ransom in Ondo

The five corps members who were abducted four days ago by a group of 15 suspected gunmen in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, have been freed after their families paid a ransom of N5 million.

The victims, comprising three females and two males, were kidnapped last week on Omi Afala Road in Ifon.

A family member of one of the victims confirmed their release, stating, “They (corps members) were released after we gathered five million for the bandits. Each of the victims paid one million each before they were set free.”

The victims have been taken to a hospital for treatment due to the injuries and trauma they sustained during their ordeal.

Spokesperson for the State Police Command, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, confirmed the release and added that the victims were left in the forest after police pressure forced the kidnappers to abandon them.

She explained, “The command this day on the 22nd of July has found victims of the Ose/Ifon area kidnap which occurred on 18th July, 2024. The victims were abandoned by their assailants after the police mounted pressure on the kidnappers.”

Odunlami-Omisanya further noted that police, led by the Area Commander of Owo, ACP Olufemi Awoyale, and supported by technical resources, were instrumental in the rescue.

“Policemen drawn from the Tactical squad led by the Area Commander of Owo, ACP Olufemi Awoyale continuously combing of the Bush with sustained technical support frustrated the assailants and were forced to abandon the victims at Oyinbo/Sanusi Camp,” she added.

The victims are now receiving medical care at the Police Medical Services Owo and will be reunited with their families after a debriefing.