About 250 suspected criminals were apprehended by the State Security Network Agency, Amotekun, in Ondo state during the Ember months operation campaign.
The Commander of Amotekun in the state, Chief Adetinji Adeleye, disclosed that the arrests took place at various locations across the state over the past two weeks.
Adeleye stated that Amotekun would sustain patrols in border communities to eliminate criminals and minimize criminal activities before, during, and after the yuletide season.
While presenting the suspects in Akure, the Amotekun Commander mentioned that out of the 250 suspects, about 195 were released to traditional rulers in their communities after profiling, while the remaining 55 would face prosecution.
Adeleye remarked, “Two weeks ago, we initiated the 2023 edition of the ember patrol to ensure that commuters and residents of Ondo State enjoy the yuletide period without fear. We commenced 24-hour, seven-day patrols in the 18 council areas and the state capital.
“In the state capital, we started street-by-street patrols to address instances of shop breaking, house breaking, and other crimes. Today, we are parading 55 suspects. The actual arrests total about 250, but after profiling, we have identified 55 individuals whom we believe the court of law should determine their fitness to return to society or go to correctional services.”
Regarding the alleged crimes committed by the suspects, he explained, “Some were involved in kidnapping, vandalization of transformers, house breaking, illegal possession of firearms, threats to life, attempted robbery, and stealing of fuel. Others were engaged in the destruction of federal government critical assets related to the stealing of cables and transformers. We also handled a case of arson promptly.
“We addressed the tendency of residents taking the law into their hands by lynching suspects involved in accidents with motorcycle riders.”
Adeleye noted a significant reduction in herders/farmers clashes and the complete cessation of bank robberies in the state. He added, “Today’s event is a comprehensive assessment of the security situation in Ondo State. Compliance with the rule of law has been commendable, with minimal issues related to political activities, student cooperation with security agencies, no problems with chieftaincy affairs, and virtually zero cases of human trafficking.”
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