The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, has announced the arrest of 97 suspects linked to various criminal activities, including kidnapping, armed robbery, burglary and violations of the state’s anti-open grazing law.
According to the agency, the suspects were apprehended during a series of operations carried out across different parts of the state within the last two weeks.
Speaking on the development, Amotekun Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye revealed that some of those arrested were allegedly members of kidnapping and armed robbery gangs operating in areas such as Akure, Ikare Akoko, Ilu-Abo and other communities.
Adeleye disclosed that security operatives also recovered stolen vehicles during the raids and arrested key suspects connected to the criminal activities.
In a major breakthrough, the commander said some suspects confessed to serving as informants and logistics suppliers for kidnappers hiding in forests across the state.
He also raised concerns over what he described as a disturbing new trend, involving groups of people relocating into forest areas with household items, bedding, cooking utensils and other personal belongings.
According to him, several individuals intercepted in the forests claimed they were fleeing insecurity in northern Nigeria. However, investigations allegedly revealed that some had been invited into the state by individuals already residing in the area.
Adeleye said one suspect admitted he only invited two workers but was surprised when they arrived with more than 50 additional persons, a situation security agencies described as suspicious.
The Amotekun boss stressed that the agency remains committed to protecting residents and preventing criminal groups from establishing camps in forested areas across the state.
The latest arrests come amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of the South-West, with security agencies intensifying efforts to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes.
