In an incident on Saturday evening, gunmen launched an attack on an 18-seater commuter bus in Ondo State, abducting an unspecified number of passengers. The attack occurred around Irun-Akoko, a community situated along the busy Ikare-Akoko/Ado Ekiti Road.
According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen emerged from the surrounding forest and forced the bus to stop by firing several rounds into the air. Passengers, gripped by fear, were then forcibly removed from the vehicle and led into the dense forest.
The Ondo State Police Command, through its spokesperson Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, confirmed the incident on Sunday. She assured the public that a comprehensive investigation is underway. “We have deployed a tactical team to the area to track down the perpetrators and rescue the victims. We are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of our citizens and bring the culprits to justice,” she stated.
Local residents expressed growing concerns over the increasing frequency of such attacks in the region, calling on the government to enhance security measures along the major highways. The abduction has left families and the community in a state of anxiety, hoping for the swift and safe return of their loved ones.
Authorities have urged anyone with information that could aid the investigation to come forward. Meanwhile, efforts are being intensified to ensure the safety and security of travelers in the area, with additional patrols and surveillance being implemented.
