Ondo Amotekun arrests 95 suspects across 18 LGAs in joint security crackdown targeting kidnapping, burglary and illegal mining

The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps, has arrested no fewer than 95 suspected criminals across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State in a sweeping security operation.

Also read: Ondo Government faces growing criticism over Amotekun welfare crisis

Akogun Adeleye, Commander of the Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, disclosed the arrests on Sunday while addressing journalists in Akure, the state capital.

Akogun Adeleye said the operation was carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army.

Akogun Adeleye explained that the suspects were allegedly involved in offences ranging from kidnapping and burglary to stealing and illegal mining.

Among those identified were Victor, 31; Jonathan, 34; Akpan, 35; Aliu, 27; Sanni, 20; Adeoye, 44; Ayodeji, 50; Abdullahi, 24; Doman, 25; Isaac, 20; Peter, 25; and Dada, 42.

According to Akogun Adeleye, 61 of the suspects were found inside a trailer truck and are currently being profiled to determine the next course of action.

Nineteen others were arrested for breaching law and order, while three were linked to anti-grazing disputes involving farmers and herders. Twelve suspects were connected to kidnapping-related offences.

Akogun Adeleye described the outcome as a significant breakthrough, particularly in restive parts of the state. Several of the kidnapping suspects were apprehended in Akure North Local Government Area, including Ilu-Abo, Idogun-Ugbe, Alagbaka, Ayede, Iloro Camp and Ogbese.

Akogun Adeleye said the arrests were expected to restore calm in the affected communities, noting that a joint security operation remains ongoing in the area.

On anti-grazing violations, the commander named Umai Jibril and Hassan among those apprehended. Akogun Adeleye stated that 34 suspects were being publicly paraded, while 61 others remain under investigation.

The commander credited the success of the operation to what he described as robust inter-agency cooperation.

Akogun Adeleye emphasised that Ondo Amotekun arrests 95 suspects through coordinated intelligence and joint enforcement efforts, underscoring the resolve of security agencies in the state.

Issuing a stern warning, Akogun Adeleye declared that Ondo State would not serve as a refuge for criminal elements.