The Amotekun Corps in Ondo State has apprehended 21 individuals in connection with alleged kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities. Adetunji Adeleye, the state commander of Amotekun, announced the arrests on Tuesday in Akure, noting that the suspects were detained over the past few weeks.
Of the 21 suspects, 19 were apprehended for various law and order offenses, while two were specifically arrested for kidnapping. Adeleye emphasized that the arrests were made possible by credible information received from the public, despite ongoing criminal activities.
Adeleye criticized individuals who purchase inexpensive second-hand goods, warning that such practices could be seen as aiding criminal activities. He also urged the public to avoid using commercial motorcyclists (Okadas) who cover their faces with hoods, leaving only their eyes and nose visible.
The Amotekun commander highlighted that the corps had dismantled a syndicate involved in stealing motorcycles from innocent Okada riders. Additionally, a group specializing in breaking into unoccupied houses was also broken up. This group had been stealing from these properties and selling the stolen goods across various local governments, but Amotekun was able to recover some of the items.
Furthermore, suspected kidnappers who were apprehended after ransom payments were made have provided valuable information to the authorities. Adeleye stated that new security measures are being implemented to enhance safety in border areas between Edo-Ondo and Edo-Kogi states, with improvements expected soon.
Despite some ongoing issues with robbery and kidnapping at border areas, Adeleye reassured that Ondo State remains relatively peaceful.
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