Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command on Sunday night engaged some criminal elements suspected to be kidnappers in a gun battle in Owo town, Owo Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, who confirmed this in a statement on Monday, said the gun battle ensued in the area following an attempt by a six-man kidnappers to abduct the Chairman of Ojana New Area, Pastor Taiwo Taiwo.

According to the statement, the incident occurred at about 7:05 p.m. when the command received a distress call about the activities of the criminal elements.

The PPRO said the assailants subsequently abandoned their plans, leading to the rescue of the intended victim and his family.

The statement reads, “At about 7:05 p.m. when the Police received a distress call indicating that a six-man armed kidnapping gang had stormed the residence of Pastor Taiwo Taiwo, Chairman of Ojana New Area, Owo, with the intention of abducting him.

“Acting promptly on the information, the Divisional Police Officer, B Division, Owo, mobilized and led a patrol team to the scene.

“Upon arrival, the operatives encountered the armed assailants, leading to an exchange of gunfire.

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

“The intended victim and his family members were successfully rescued and unharmed and subsequently relocated to a safer location for enhanced security and protection”.

United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister, Keir Starmer has resigned from office as both Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party.
Starmer made the announcement on Monday outside 10 Downing Street, saying his time in office was guided by what he believed was best for the country.

“Every decision I have made has been about putting the country I love first,” he said.

In his statement, Starmer confirmed he had informed King Charles III of his resignation and directed the Labour Party’s National Executive Committee to begin the process of choosing a new leader and nominations would open on 9 July, with the transition expected to be completed before parliament resumes in September.

He added that he would remain in office temporarily to oversee a smooth handover.

His resignation follows growing pressure from within the Labour Party, particularly after a major by-election win by rival Andy Burnham in North West England, which intensified calls for a change in leadership ahead of parliament’s return.