The Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun in Ondo State, has announced the arrest of 22 suspects linked to various offences, including kidnapping, burglary, and theft.
This was disclosed by the State Commander of the Corps, Mr. Adetunji Adeleye, at a press briefing held at the Command’s headquarters in Akure on Tuesday.
According to him, the arrests underscore the Corps’ commitment to safeguarding lives and property, particularly as the festive season approaches.
Among the arrests, three suspects were apprehended for conspiracy, burglary, and theft, while four others were charged with breaking and entering.
“Additionally, five suspects were arrested for stealing items such as copper wires, motorcycles, sewing machines, and cables.
“A syndicate specialising in vandalising electrical installations and transformers was also dismantled, alongside another group involved in stealing gasoline pumps, car tyres, and batteries.
“Among the suspects are Sule Gende and Libu, charged with kidnapping, and Ibukun Akintan, apprehended for suspected robbery.
“Others include Rotimi Bidemi, Victor Michael, Ojo Ilesanmi, and Ademola, all accused of burglary. Nelson Akinwande was linked to motorcycle theft, while Omolola Opeyemi was implicated in the theft of an industrial machine.
“In addition, Sande Ego and Patrick Emmanuel were arrested for stealing cables and transformer cables at a medical institution.”
He further hinted that the arrests were the result of intensive investigations and tracking efforts by the Amotekun Corps, with suspects apprehended in various locations, including the southern senatorial district of the state.
“One of the suspects unknowingly harboured a kidnapping victim for over a week, highlighting the need for vigilance when dealing with visitors and second-hand goods,” Adeleye noted.
The Commander emphasised that all suspects are undergoing thorough interrogation before prosecution, reaffirming the Corps’ resolve to curb criminal activities in the state.
Highlighting inter-agency collaboration, Adeleye disclosed joint efforts with the Department of State Services (DSS) in Edo State, where some kidnapping suspects were initially apprehended.
“Rather than delay prosecution here, we have agreed to transfer the suspects to Edo State for smoother legal proceedings,” he added.
With the festive season underway, the Amotekun Corps has reassured residents of its readiness to tackle any potential spike in criminal activities.
“Twenty-four-hour patrols have been initiated across all 18 local government areas of the state. Our men are strategically stationed at black spots and high-risk locations to ensure a secure environment for everyone,” Adeleye declared.
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Residents were urged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, verify the authenticity of second-hand goods, and avoid harbouring strangers without proper identification.
The Corps also reiterated its emergency contact line, 08079999989, for prompt response.
To maintain transparency, the Commander allowed media representatives direct access to the suspects for questioning.
“Let them narrate their stories to you to prevent any misrepresentation of facts,” he stated.
Despite the challenges posed by an influx of visitors during the Yuletide, the Corps expressed confidence in its ability to maintain peace.
“Ondo State remains safe, and we are working round the clock to ensure it stays that way,” Adeleye affirmed.
He concluded the briefing with a stern warning to criminals.
“The presence of our men across the state will deter criminal activities. We remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding lives and property,” he asserted.
The Commander also appealed to residents for cooperation with security agencies to ensure collective safety.
“Your support is vital to our continued success. Together, we can make Ondo State a haven for all,” he said.
The proactive measures by the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies have been widely applauded as a model for effective crime prevention during high-pressure periods such as the festive season.
