The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, on Wednesday paraded 46 suspected criminals arrested for offences ranging from kidnapping and armed robbery to cultism, illegal possession of firearms and attempted murder.
Speaking at the corps' headquarters in Akure, the state capital, the Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, said the agency had intensified security operations across the state and warned criminals to stay away from Ondo.
Adeleye explained that operatives had continued security patrols initiated during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations, citing prevailing security concerns. He noted that all operational units, including border patrol teams, rangers and tactical squads, remained active across the 18 local government areas.
According to him, the sustained operations have resulted in several arrests and ongoing prosecutions in courts across Akure, Owo and Okitipupa. He stressed that the corps would not relent in its efforts to rid the state of criminal elements.
The commander also disclosed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had approved the conditional release of motorcycles impounded for violating the state's restriction on commercial motorcycle operations between 7 p.m. and 5 a.m.
He said affected owners have 15 days to fulfil stipulated conditions and present valid documents before their motorcycles can be released. However, he clarified that motorcycles linked to robbery, kidnapping and other criminal activities would not benefit from the directive.
Among those paraded were suspected members of a robbery gang accused of breaking into homes and stealing valuables. Adeleye said the syndicate recently burgled the residence of a prominent resident, but operatives tracked and arrested the alleged gang leader within 24 hours, recovering several stolen items.
The corps also presented suspected kidnappers arrested in various parts of the state, including Owo, Akoko, Ilu-Abo and Oda Road. Adeleye stated that some of the suspects were identified by their victims, while others were apprehended during intelligence-led operations.
Giving a breakdown of the arrests, he said 13 suspects were linked to kidnapping-related offences, two were arrested for violating the Anti-Open Grazing Law, while 31 others were apprehended for crimes including cultism, theft, attempted murder, breach of peace and unlawful possession of firearms.
The commander further revealed that two brothers, identified as Usman and Zakaria, were arrested in connection with a kidnapping case in the Murewa area.
He added that an alleged accomplice was apprehended while delivering supplies to suspected kidnappers.
Adeleye assured residents that the state remains under close surveillance and reaffirmed the corps' commitment to working with other security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
"We will continue to pursue criminal elements wherever they hide and ensure they face the full weight of the law. Ondo State will remain hostile to criminals," he said.
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