The Olofun of Ode-Irele in Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State, Oba Samuel Omopariola Odimayo, has established a palace-funded vigilante outfit to bolster security following growing concerns over criminal activities in the community.
The security outfit, known as the Malokun Vigilante Volunteer Group, will be financed and supervised by the palace to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies in protecting lives and property across the kingdom.
Speaking during the inauguration, the monarch said the initiative was conceived by the palace and traditional chiefs to strengthen security in Ode-Irele and neighbouring communities under his jurisdiction.
Oba Odimayo disclosed that over 50 youths had been recruited and were undergoing intensive training under a private security firm ahead of their deployment for community patrol and surveillance.
He said the volunteers would be stationed across towns and villages within the kingdom after completing their training to enhance the safety of residents.
The traditional ruler linked the initiative to recent security challenges, including the abduction of a 35-year-old businesswoman, while commending security agencies for rescuing the victim and arresting the suspected kidnappers. He pledged the palace's continued support for law enforcement agencies.
Oba Odimayo also appreciated residents for backing the initiative and assured them that more programmes aimed at improving security and community development would be introduced.
The President of the Coalition of Irele Progressive Youth, Michael Akinboyo, lauded the monarch for the initiative and pledged the support of the youth body towards ensuring the success of the vigilante group.
(Hope Newspaper)
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