Again, gunmen kidnap pregnant woman in Akure

Gunmen have abducted a pregnant woman, Mary Jesulayomi, at Ayede community in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

A resident of the community, who pleaded anonymity, told newsmen on Wednesday that the incident occurred a few meters away from the Federal Secretariat, Igbatoro, Akure, the capital of Ondo State, at about 7:40 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

The resident said: “The incident occurred yesterday (Tuesday) at Ayede community near Alagbaka Extension in Akure, where one Mrs Mary Jesulayomi was captured and taken away by gunmen.

“In addition, Mrs Ogunleye Mese, 85 years old, was also kidnapped but was later released, while her 90-year-old husband, Pa Ogunleye Mese, suffered severe injury in the process.”

The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the abduction on Wednesday, saying operatives had been deployed to rescue the pregnant woman unhurt.

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Jimoh said: “Upon receipt of the report, the command has deployed tactical teams to the scene.

“Efforts are ongoing towards the rescue of the victim and apprehension of the perpetrators of the crime.”

Between Saturday, January 24 and 27, 2026, no fewer than six persons have been abducted by gunmen in three communities in Akure North Local Government Area.

On January 24, four people were kidnapped at Eleyewo community, while two of the victims were rescued by the police.

On January 25, a woman was kidnapped at Ilu-Abo, while three residents were shot by gunmen during the incident.

The Star