Residents of Ipojo Golden Estate in the Oke-Eri area of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, were thrown into fear and confusion after suspected bandits invaded the community and abducted three members of the same family.
The incident reportedly occurred around 7:00 p.m. on Monday when about 15 heavily armed gunmen stormed the residential estate, forcing their way into one of the homes and ransacking the property before whisking away the victims.
Sources in the community said the abducted victims include two women and a man. The head of the family, identified as Yesiru Badewa, was said to be away on official duty when the attackers struck.
Speaking after the incident, a distressed Badewa appealed to the authorities and members of the public for urgent intervention, revealing that one of the kidnapped victims is currently ill and may require immediate medical attention.
“This has devastated us. One of those abducted is sick, and we are deeply worried her condition may worsen in captivity. We appeal to the authorities and kind-hearted Nigerians to come to our aid,” he said.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers caused panic in the estate, with many residents running for safety. Reports also indicate that another woman was shot during the attack as the gunmen fled into a nearby forest.
A community leader, identified simply as Mr. Kehinde, described the incident as shocking and unprecedented, noting that the estate had long been considered a peaceful and secure neighborhood.
“We never imagined such an incident could happen here. Residents were caught completely unaware. We urge the government and security agencies to strengthen security in this area,” he said.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the command has launched tactical and intelligence operations aimed at rescuing the victims and apprehending the kidnappers.
“The Ogun State Police Command is aware of the incident at Ipojo Golden Estate, Oke-Eri, Ijebu-Ode, and has intensified tactical operations to rescue the victims and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he stated.
The attack has heightened fear among residents of the area, many of whom are now calling for increased security presence and urgent government intervention as kidnappings continue to raise concerns across parts of the country.
