A 60-year-old building materials trader has been abducted in Ibadan, Oyo State, following a late-night attack in the Monatan area that has heightened concerns over security among residents.

The incident occurred on Saturday at about 8:47 p.m. along the Jinarere axis of Alakia Road, where the victim was reportedly intercepted while returning home.

Preliminary reports indicate that four masked gunmen accosted the trader and forcibly whisked him away in an unregistered ash-coloured Toyota Corolla.

Confirming the development, the Oyo State Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said operatives responded swiftly after receiving a distress call.

“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives swiftly visited the scene and activated necessary operational measures aimed at rescuing the victim and apprehending the perpetrators,” he said.

He added that tactical efforts were ongoing, with security operatives deploying available resources to secure the victim’s safe release and track down those responsible.

The police also reassured residents of their commitment to maintaining security and tackling criminal activities across the state, as investigations into the incident continue.