The Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, has arrested no fewer than 95 suspected criminals across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State for various offences.
The corps said the arrests were carried out in collaboration with operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army.
The Amotekun Commander in the state, Akogun Adeleye, disclosed this on Sunday while speaking with journalists in Akure, the state capital.
Adeleye said the suspects were allegedly involved in crimes including kidnapping, stealing, burglary and illegal mining.
He identified some of the suspects as Victor, 31; Jonathan, 34; Akpan, 35; Aliu, 27; Sanni, 20; Adeoye, 44; Ayodeji, 50; Abdullahi, 24; Doman, 25; Isaac, 20; Peter, 25; and Dada, 42.
According to him, 61 of the suspects were found inside a trailer truck and are currently being profiled to determine the next line of action.
“In the last few weeks, there have been concerted efforts by all security agencies in the state, especially Amotekun, the police, civil defence and the DSS, in tracking suspected criminals, and I want to say that it has actually yielded very good results,” Adeleye said.
He added that 19 suspects were arrested for breaching law and order, three for anti-grazing and farmers-herders related issues, while 12 were linked to kidnapping.
The commander disclosed that some of the kidnapping suspects were apprehended in the restive Akure North Local Government Area, expressing optimism that the arrests would restore peace in the area amid ongoing joint security operations.
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He listed locations where the suspects were arrested to include Ilu-Abo, Idogun-Ugbe, Alagbaka area, Ayede and Iloro Camp in Akure, as well as Ogbese in Akure North Local Government Area.
On anti-grazing offences, Adeleye named Umai Jibril and Hassan among those arrested.
“This brings the total of those being paraded for these activities to 34 here with us, and those not being paraded, who are being investigated right now, are 61,” he said.
Adeleye attributed the success of the operation to inter-agency collaboration and warned criminal elements to desist or face decisive action.
“Ondo State is not a safe haven for criminals. We will continue to collaborate with sister agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property,” he stated.