Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Ondo State Police Command has announced the disruption of a suspected bomb plot in Akure, the state capital, following a coordinated intelligence-led operation that led to the arrest of six individuals and the recovery of materials believed to be components for improvised explosive devices.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing, the Commissioner of Police, Adebwale Lawal, described the operation as a significant breakthrough in the command’s ongoing efforts to combat emerging security threats and maintain stability across the state. He noted that the intervention prevented what could have resulted in substantial loss of life and destruction of property.
The arrests were carried out on April 15, 2026, after the command received credible intelligence regarding the activities of a suspected criminal syndicate operating within and beyond Ondo State. Acting on the information, police operatives were deployed to a location in Akure, where they apprehended the suspects before any attack could be executed.
Those arrested were identified as Adekunle Prosper, 56; Ojo Olumide, 39; Tope Kolawole, 40; Ahmed Salihu, 40; Bolaji Adebowale, 46; and Gbadebo Abidemi, 43. Authorities believe the group had been operating covertly and had established a base in the Oke-Odu area of the city.
According to the police, a search of the suspects’ residence and surrounding premises led to the recovery of a wide range of items, including 217 bottles, a bag of sugar, criminal charms, 17 mobile phones, two HP laptops, an external hard drive, and ₦187,000 in cash. Other items recovered include eight slings, a knife, identity documents, two motorcycles, and what investigators described as materials capable of being used in the fabrication of improvised explosive devices.
Preliminary findings indicate that some of the items were intended for assembling explosive devices, while others may have been used to support coordination and communication within the group. Investigators also recovered a document believed to contain mapped-out locations of potential targets, suggesting that the operation was premeditated and involved a level of planning beyond spontaneous criminal activity.
Police sources said the suspects had recently rented the apartment used as their operational base, raising concerns about the use of residential properties for clandestine activities. Authorities have since urged landlords and property managers to conduct proper background checks on prospective tenants to reduce the risk of criminal infiltration into communities.
While the full scope of the group’s activities is still under investigation, early intelligence suggests that their plans may have extended beyond Akure to other parts of the country. Officials indicated that further inquiries are ongoing to determine whether the suspects are linked to a broader network or acted independently.
The Commissioner of Police emphasized that the command remains vigilant in detecting and neutralizing threats, noting that the successful operation was a product of proactive policing and collaboration with intelligence sources. He reiterated the importance of public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities, which he described as critical to maintaining security.
The development comes amid heightened attention to internal security across Nigeria, where law enforcement agencies have increasingly relied on intelligence-driven strategies to address evolving threats, including terrorism, banditry, and organized crime. Although Ondo State has not been a major hotspot for such activities compared to some northern regions, authorities have warned against complacency.
Security analysts note that the discovery of materials linked to improvised explosive devices in a southwestern state highlights the potential spread of tactics previously associated with insurgent groups. However, officials have not publicly linked the suspects to any known extremist organization, and investigations remain focused on establishing the facts.
The police also used the briefing to highlight recent successes in maintaining public order, including ensuring peaceful celebrations during the Eid-el-Fitr and Easter periods. Authorities attributed these outcomes to enhanced patrols, surveillance, and coordination among security agencies.
The Ondo State government, led by Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has been acknowledged by the police for its support in strengthening security operations. Officials say continued collaboration between government institutions and law enforcement agencies is essential in addressing both conventional and emerging threats.
At the national level, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has emphasized the need for proactive measures and intelligence sharing among commands to enhance response capabilities. The Ondo operation is being cited as an example of such an approach in practice.
Residents of Akure have expressed a mix of relief and concern following the announcement. While many welcomed the police intervention, others called for sustained vigilance and transparency as investigations continue. Community leaders have also reiterated the need for awareness and cooperation between citizens and security agencies.
Authorities have assured the public that the suspects are in custody and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law once investigations are concluded. They also indicated that efforts are underway to identify any additional collaborators or networks connected to the case.
As the investigation unfolds, the incident serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of security challenges and the importance of early detection and rapid response. For now, officials maintain that the swift action taken by the police has neutralized a potentially serious threat and reinforced confidence in the state’s security framework.
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