Gunmen abduct six worshippers from Celestial Church of Christ in Uso, Ondo State, as police and army launch rescue operations

Gunmen have abducted six worshippers from a Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) in Uso, Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, during an early-morning service on Wednesday.

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Jimoh Abayomi, police spokesperson for the state, said the incident occurred at approximately 12:50 a.m., prompting a rapid response from state police operatives, Nigerian Army personnel, and local vigilance groups.

“Upon receiving the report, operatives of the command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated rescue operations,” Abayomi stated.

Authorities confirmed that one of the abducted worshippers has been rescued, while one suspect has been arrested and is cooperating with ongoing investigations.

“Security operations are ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the apprehension of all perpetrators involved,” the spokesperson added.

The abduction follows a similar attack four days earlier, when a couple was kidnapped in the Ilu-Abo community of Akure North LGA.

Residents have expressed growing concern over the rising number of gunmen attacks in the state since the start of the year.