By Daily Review Online
Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network, Amotekun, have arrested a suspected drug peddler who allegedly acted as an informant for kidnappers, along with 98 other suspects, in a coordinated statewide operation.
During a press briefing, Amotekun Commander Chief Adetunji Adeleye revealed that some of those apprehended posed as mentally unstable to avoid suspicion while carrying out kidnappings and robberies.
“These fake lunatics were involved in drug trafficking, gathering intelligence for kidnappers, and other criminal activities across the state,” Adeleye said. “Our intelligence and plainclothes officers tracked them to locations where they charged their phones, changed clothes, and coordinated operations before they were arrested.”
Other suspects were arrested during anti-kidnapping raids and for robbery, drug dealing, and acts likely to breach public peace. Of the 98 suspects, 60 face prosecution in court, 38 cases were resolved through Alternative Dispute Resolution, and 13 remain under investigation. Ten individuals were caught at kidnapping scenes or while attempting abductions.
Adeleye also recounted a recent operation in Ilu-Abo community, Akure North, where Amotekun’s rapid response team rescued a kidnapped couple without paying ransom. Mr. and Mrs. Sanusi Kehinde were abducted shortly after returning home around 6:30 p.m. armed assailants dragged them into a nearby forest.
Describing the ordeal, Mr. Kehinde said, “They attacked us with machetes and beat us mercilessly. Our experience in their hands was traumatic and pathetic.” He, however, praised Amotekun’s swift action, noting that his wife was rescued in less than ten minutes, with the Corps Commander personally involved.
Adeleye attributed the recent rise in kidnapping and other crimes to pressure on criminal elements fleeing the North but reassured residents that Ondo remains safe. “Our forests are no longer safe havens for criminals. Security agencies are working together to protect lives and property,” he said. Residents were urged to provide actionable intelligence, which would be treated with strict confidentiality.