OWO — Armed operatives of the Ondo State Police Command on Sunday night rescued a local cleric and his family after a fierce gun battle with a six-man kidnapping gang.

The gunmen stormed the Ojana New Area residence of Pastor Taiwo Taiwo at about 7:05 p.m., attempting to abduct him. Pastor Taiwo serves as the community chairman for the area.

Following a distress call, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of `B` Division, Owo, mobilized and led a patrol team to the scene. The team immediately engaged the armed invaders in a shootout.

State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday.

"The superior tactical response and determination of the police operatives forced the criminals to retreat into the surrounding bush, abandoning their plan," Jimoh stated.

The police successfully rescued the pastor and his family members unharmed. Authorities have since relocated the victims to a secure location to ensure their continued safety.

Security forces have launched a manhunt in the surrounding bushes to apprehend the fleeing suspects.