The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, has arrested 97 suspects for various offences across the state’s 18 local government areas during a two-week security operation.
The State Commander of the corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed this on Sunday, saying the suspects were apprehended in connection with alleged kidnapping, armed robbery, burglary, vehicle theft, and violations of the state’s anti-open grazing law.
According to Adeleye, the arrests followed a series of raids and intelligence-led operations targeting criminal hideouts and suspected gangs operating in different parts of the state.
He said several of those arrested were linked to armed robbery and kidnapping syndicates active in communities including Ikare-Akoko, Akure, Kajola, Ilu-Abo, Akure North, Mure, and Oja-Mokan.
Adeleye noted that security operatives succeeded in dismantling a criminal network involved in vehicle theft and hijacking, leading to the recovery of stolen vehicles and the arrest of key suspects.
He further revealed that some of those in custody allegedly confessed to serving as informants and logistics suppliers for kidnappers operating within forested areas of the state.
“We have arrested individuals who admitted to providing information and support to kidnapping gangs. Some also identified themselves as members of kidnapping groups,” he said.
The Amotekun commander also raised concerns over what he described as a new security trend involving the movement of groups of people into forest locations with household items and personal belongings.
READ ALSO:Â Insecurity: MURIC Urges South-West Govs To Strengthen Amotekun, OPCÂ
According to him, several individuals, including women of different ages, were intercepted in forest areas carrying cooking utensils, bedding, mortars, pestles, and other domestic items.
He alleged that some of those questioned claimed they had relocated from northern parts of the country due to security pressure and had been invited into the forests by acquaintances already residing there.
Adeleye cited one case in which a suspect allegedly admitted inviting two workers, only for dozens of additional individuals to arrive in the area without prior notice.
The commander described the development as suspicious and said security agencies would continue to monitor such movements closely to prevent potential threats to public safety.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to combating crime and maintaining peace across Ondo State, assuring residents that operations against criminal elements would be sustained.
The Amotekun Corps urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue providing useful information to security agencies to support efforts aimed at protecting lives and property.