Security Agencies Take Battle Against Kidnappers to Forests In Ondo

—Two suspects arrested

Under the directive of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, security agencies in Ondo State have launched an extensive operation, taking the fight directly to the forests where criminals are believed to be hiding.

In a decisive move to combat the rising wave of kidnapping, a joint task force on Monday begun combing operations across identified hotspots in the state, aiming to root out criminal elements.

The coordinated operation commenced within the Akure North Local Government Area and involves personnel from the Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigerian Army.

Starnews NG reports that the collaborative effort seeks to eliminate the threats posed by kidnappers and other criminal factions operating in the region.

Beginning from the vicinity of HOB Estate, the operation expanded into the forests of Ilado, Ilu-Abo, and Ala-Dada. Security personnel navigated challenging terrains on foot, motorcycles, and operational vehicles, diligently searching for hideouts used by kidnappers. Their efforts led to the dismantling and burning of suspected hideouts, a significant step in disrupting criminal activities.

During the operation, two suspected kidnappers were apprehended, highlighting the operation’s effectiveness.

Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), Adetunji Adeleye, commented on the initiative, stating, “This is a deliberate and continuous operation. The message is clear—there is no safe haven for criminals in Ondo State. We will continue to comb all identified black spots until criminal activities are completely eradicated.”

The renewed offensive against criminality is part of a broader strategy by the Lucky Aiyedatiwa administration, which has seen remarkable progress in recent weeks.

Reports from Starnews NG have indicated multiple arrests made by the Ondo State Police Command, targeting kidnappers and those providing logistical support to them.

On March 22, the police command reported the arrest of three suspects connected to a kidnapping incident that was captured on closed-circuit television. The command’s spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed that the suspects—Mohammed Koro (27), Muhammad Usman (30), and Musa Alhaji (23)—were apprehended after a thorough analysis of the viral footage.

Earlier this month, a kidnapping incident occurred along Pelebe Road in Oda, Akure South LGA, where a woman was abducted following the shooting of her husband. The footage revealed her children fleeing in various directions as the gunmen forcibly took her away. The timely arrests of the suspects reflect the ongoing commitment of the Ondo State Police to enhance security and restore peace to the region.

As these operations continue, the residents of Ondo State remain hopeful for a sustained decline in criminal activities and an improvement in their overall security situation.