Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps, has achieved a major operational success with the arrest of 35 suspects involved in a range of serious criminal activities, including kidnapping, human trafficking, rape, armed robbery, and theft. The operation also led to the rescue of kidnapped victims and the recovery of stolen property, highlighting the agency’s intensified efforts to combat insecurity in the state.
The arrests were carried out across multiple communities in Ondo State and were publicly announced by the State Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Chief Adetunji Adeleye. Officials said the operation was intelligence-driven, involving coordinated patrols and rapid response to reported criminal activities, aimed at dismantling networks that have long threatened the safety of residents.
Among the 35 suspects, 11 were linked to kidnapping incidents in and around Akure and neighboring areas. In one notable rescue, Amotekun operatives successfully freed a father and his teenage son who had been abducted and held against their will. According to reports, the victims were attacked by armed assailants and dragged into a bush area before Amotekun personnel intervened and secured their release.
Three of the suspects were alleged to have engaged in human trafficking, defrauding a victim of substantial funds under the pretense of facilitating overseas travel. Authorities recovered the money and associated travel documents and returned them to the victim’s family. Additionally, two suspects were arrested for alleged rape, while others were linked to theft, armed robbery, and breaches of law and order.
A number of the suspects were accused of motorcycle theft and armed assaults. In one operation, a stolen Lexus SUV was recovered after security operatives blocked potential escape routes. These measures reflect Amotekun’s broader mandate to curb violent crime and theft, particularly those incidents involving motor vehicles, which have been a recurring source of insecurity.
Chief Adeleye emphasized that the recent success resulted from a combination of community intelligence and active patrolling. The corps has also implemented measures to regulate commercial motorcycle operations, including a night-time ban aimed at preventing the use of motorcycles for criminal purposes. More than 14,000 motorcycle riders have been registered under state directives, and motorcycles violating regulations have been impounded to enforce compliance.
The Amotekun Corps’ proactive approach, involving both patrols and intelligence-gathering, has reportedly contributed to a reduction in house break-ins and other opportunistic crimes across the state. Officials stressed that community cooperation is essential, urging residents to report suspicious activities and provide actionable intelligence to assist security operations.
While the arrests and rescues represent significant progress, challenges remain. Kidnapping, theft, and violent crime continue to affect parts of Ondo State, requiring ongoing vigilance from law enforcement and collaboration with local communities. Analysts note that sustainable improvements will depend on continued intelligence work, judicial follow-up, and socio-economic interventions that address the underlying causes of crime.
Residents and community leaders have expressed cautious optimism about the impact of these operations, noting that visible enforcement action has bolstered public confidence. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and property and vowed to maintain pressure on criminal networks to restore order and ensure community safety.
As the suspects await prosecution, Ondo State’s security apparatus continues to highlight its determination to tackle crime comprehensively. The operations demonstrate a combination of rapid response, intelligence-led strategy, and community engagement, aiming to create a safer environment for all residents.
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