AKURE, Nigeria — Suspected gunmen attacked a Celestial Church in Uso, Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, abducting six worshippers during an early morning service, police said Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026.

The attack occurred at about 12:50 a.m. at a church located along the Uso/Owo Motorway, according to the Ondo State Police Command.

An eyewitness told Vanguard that the gunmen stormed the church premises and whisked the victims to an unknown destination. The source added that one of the abducted worshippers narrowly escaped shortly after the incident.

Families of the victims said the kidnappers had yet to contact them as of press time.

Confirming the attack, the state police spokesperson, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said operatives had launched a coordinated rescue operation.

“At approximately 12:50 a.m., six worshippers were abducted at a Celestial Church located along the Uso/Owo Motorway in Uso,” Abayomi said. “The victims were reportedly taken to an unknown destination by the attackers.”

He said police operatives, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and local vigilante groups, immediately mobilized to the scene upon receiving the report.

“As a result of sustained joint efforts, one of the kidnapped victims has been successfully rescued. Additionally, one suspected informant linked to the incident has been arrested and is currently assisting with ongoing investigations,” he added.

Abayomi said security operations were ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of the remaining victims and the arrest of those responsible.

He urged residents to remain calm and vigilant and to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to aid the operation.