Amotekun parades 51 suspects, escaped convict in Ondo

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, have dismantled a notorious kidnap syndicate operating within the state’s forests and arrested no fewer than 51 suspected criminals, including an escaped convict from the Okitipupa Correctional Centre.

Among those arrested were six alleged kidnappers, aged 21, 30 and 40, who reportedly confessed to carrying out five major abductions in the state.

Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, Commander of the corps, said the syndicate’s ringleader admitted to several operations, describing the breakthrough as the dismantling of a dangerous network of criminals.

Speaking with newsmen on Friday at the agency’s headquarters in Akure, Adeleye explained that the 51 suspects were picked up across different parts of the state for offences ranging from kidnapping, armed robbery, rape and human trafficking to open grazing violations.

He said, “The arrests followed coordinated operations conducted in collaboration with other security agencies across forests and communities.

“Those in custody include a rape suspect, an ex-convict who escaped from Okitipupa Correctional Centre, robbery gangs and individuals who allegedly disguised as hawkers and scrap collectors but acted as informants for criminals.”

Adeleye stated that 35 of the suspects would be charged to court, while others would undergo further screening or internal dispute resolution.

While he reassured residents, he said, “In the last three weeks, Ondo State has been relatively safe. Pockets of security breaches were promptly handled by combined efforts of all security agencies.

“Our message to criminals is clear: Ondo State is not safe for you. Pack your things and leave.”

He praised Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his consistent support, stressing that Amotekun Rangers would intensify patrols across the 18 local government areas and border communities to protect lives, property and farmland.

The commander urged residents to provide timely intelligence, insisting that suspects in custody are not required to pay for bail.

“Even feeding of those under interrogation is provided free by the government,” he added.

Adeleye reaffirmed the corps’ commitment to ensuring the safety of farmers, investors and residents across the state.