Tension has gripped Imafon community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State following the abduction of a farm manager, identified as Afolabi Ajayi, by suspected gunmen.
It was gathered that the incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on Monday shortly after the victim arrived at a poultry farm in the community to supervise activities.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants reportedly emerged from a nearby bush moments after Ajayi stepped out of his vehicle and forcefully whisked him into the forest.
A family source, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the incident, said the abduction had thrown the victim’s relatives and workers at the farm into panic.
“He had just arrived at the farm to oversee operations when the gunmen suddenly appeared and dragged him into the bush,” the source said.
As of the time of filing this report, the kidnappers had yet to establish contact with the family.
The incident was said to have been reported to the police, prompting a response from security operatives.
Confirming the development, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh said tactical teams had been deployed to the area to secure the victim’s release and arrest the perpetrators.
“The command has been informed of a kidnapping incident at Ilado, where a farmer was abducted while working on his farm,” he said.
“In response, additional personnel, including tactical teams, have been deployed and are combing the surrounding forest to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and arrest of the suspects.
“The command assures the public that all necessary measures are being taken, with priority placed on the victim’s safety. Further updates will be provided as developments unfold.”
Meanwhile, residents of the community have expressed concerns over rising insecurity in the area, calling on security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the growing wave of kidnappings in the state.