No ransom, no injuries: Police secure release of kidnapped health worker

The Ondo State Police Command has successfully rescued Mr. Ayodeji Akinsero, a health worker at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owo, who was abducted by armed men from his residence on August 28, 2025.

In a statement released on Saturday in Akure, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, confirmed the development. He said the rescue followed swift action ordered by the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, who demanded the victim’s release “at all cost.”

Responding promptly, a joint task force comprising officers from the Owo Area Command, divisional police units, and the Upeme Vigilante Group launched a coordinated search and rescue operation. The team relied on credible intelligence and conducted intensive bush combing across the area from Thursday through Friday night.

The operation culminated in a confrontation with the kidnappers, who, after a gunfight, abandoned their victim and fled the scene.

Mr. Akinsero was rescued unharmed, with no ransom paid. He was immediately taken to FMC Owo for medical evaluation and has since been reunited with his family.

The command praised the bravery and commitment of its operatives and the vigilante group, emphasizing that their efforts, alongside critical public support through timely information, made the rescue possible.