Ondo: Amotekun arrests two suspected kidnappers, rescues four travellers

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network, knoown as Amotekun, have arrested two suspected kidnappers operating along Owo/ Ose Highway in Ose local government area of the state.

Disclosing the arrest of the two suspects, the State Commander of the Amotekun, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, said the suspects were nabbed after abducting four travelers along the highway.

Adeleye said he led some of his men to the area in collaboration with local hunters from the area and rescued the victims while two of the suspected kidnappers were arrested.

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He added that the suspects had been terrorizing the residents of the area and travellers plying the road, saying many travellers have been abducted while millions of Naira had been paid as ransom to them.

According to him, they collect the sum of N1.2m some few days from some abducted victims before the recent kidnap operations carried out on the axis of the particular road.

He disclosed that there was a gun duel between men of Amotekun and the suspects before they were captured and arrested.

He said, “A day before the rescue, there was a reported kidnapping along a well-known route. Our team swiftly mobilized and, in collaboration with local hunters, we combed the forest where the victims were believed to be held.

“By the end of the day, we successfully rescued four people.

“What made this operation particularly significant was the identification of two of the arrested suspects.

“These are no longer suspected kidnappers, they are confirmed kidnappers.

“The victims identified the suspects as the same individuals responsible for previous abductions in the area.

“These criminals had been arrested before but somehow managed to return to the same locality. Now, we have them again.”

He explained, “the tactics used by the kidnappers were also exposed during the press briefing.

“One of the kidnappers usually blocked a portion of the road with a vehicle, forcing commuters to slow down and making them vulnerable to ambush.

“Another suspect was identified as the individual who extorted ₦1.2m as ransom from a family in August.

“The same individual had demanded ₦20m this time but was apprehended at the scene before the ransom could be paid.

“This arrest sends a strong message: there is no hiding place for kidnappers in Ondo State anymore.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that these criminals are brought to justice and that our communities remain safe.

“The success of the operation is being hailed as a significant win in the fight against insecurity in the region.

“The collaboration between Amotekun, local hunters, and community vigilante groups was crucial to the mission’s success, showcasing the importance of grassroots efforts in tackling organized crime.

“Ondo State has been grappling with an increase in kidnapping incidents in recent months, particularly along key highways and rural routes.

“The state government, in conjunction with security agencies, has intensified efforts to curb the menace with increased patrols, intelligence gathering, and the deployment of local security forces such as Amotekun.

“The recent arrests are seen as a positive outcome of these coordinated efforts.

“We want every criminal in Ondo State to know that there is no safe haven for you here.

“We will find you, and justice will be served.”

Community leaders and local stakeholders in the area, commended the swift action of the security forces saying,  “this operation not only saved lives but has also restored confidence in the local security apparatus,”

The rescued victims, who are now receiving medical attention and psychological support at the hospital, also appreciated men of the Amotekun corps.

 

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE