Traders traveling to Owena Market in Ondo State faced a terrifying ordeal on Thursday morning after armed men attacked vehicles along the Oboto axis, an incident now clarified by police as a robbery operation that prompted a swift rescue mission.

‎EARLY MORNING ATTACK SPARKS PANIC

‎The incident occurred in the early hours along the Ita-Oba–Oboto stretch of Ondo Road, a major route linking communities to the busy Owena Market.

‎Eyewitnesses reported that gunmen intercepted vehicles conveying traders, including market women, causing panic and confusion. Some passengers were reportedly forced into the nearby bush, while a driver sustained serious injuries after being assaulted.

‎The development initially raised fears of a possible abduction, with many residents expressing concern over the safety of those taken from the vehicles.

‎ POLICE RESPONSE LEADS TO RESCUE

‎However, the Ondo State Police Command has confirmed that the attack was an armed robbery incident involving a commercial vehicle traveling from Ondo to Akure with five passengers onboard.

‎According to the police, the victims were taken into the bush by the assailants and dispossessed of their belongings.

‎Following a distress call received at about 5:20 a.m., operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, launched a coordinated operation that led to the successful rescue of all five victims unharmed.

‎SUSPECTS ARRESTED, INVESTIGATION ONGOING

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‎Security operatives also apprehended three suspects linked to the attack:

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• ‎Akinyemi Olamilekan
• ‎Mutaka Ali
• ‎Atiku Abubakar

‎The suspects are currently in custody and assisting investigators. Authorities say they will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

‎SECURITY REINFORCED ALONG KEY ROUTES

‎The deployment of police officers and Amotekun personnel to the area helped restore calm and boost confidence among residents and commuters.

‎The Ondo State Police Command reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining security across highways and commercial routes through continuous patrols and intelligence-driven operations.

‎Residents have been urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to security agencies to prevent future occurrences.

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