MeN of the Ondo State Police Command, on Sunday, killed a member of a kidnap gang who invaded the palace of the traditional ruler of Ikoya community in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State and abducted the wife of the traditional ruler, Mrs. Grace Faduyile.
Speaking on the development, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Femi Joseph, explained that men of the command swung into action immediately the command received the information about the traditional ruler’s wife’s abduction.
Joseph said a team of police was drafted to the scene, in conjunction with the local hunters and chased the kidnappers.
He said, “A combined team of policemen and hunters were mobilised and they trailed the kidnappers.
The hoodlums later abandoned the victims in the vehicle and ran into the bush.
“Our men pursued them and there was an exchange of fire, which led to the death of one of them, while others escaped with bullet wounds.”
The PPRO, however, said that the victim was rescued unhurt, and that the police were still on the trail of other members of the group, stating that the hoodlums would be brought to book.
Meanwhile, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Irele/Okitipupa Federal Constituency, Honourable Mike Omogbehin, has described the kidnap attempt as an affront on the traditional institution in Ondo State.
The federal legislator, in a statement, condemned the kidnap attempt in strong terms and called on the police authorities to provide adequate security for traditional rulers and the citizens across the country.
He noted that the foiled kidnap of the Mrs. Faduyile was an abomination in Ikale kingdom.