The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has intercepted a truck conveying 61 suspected criminals into Akure, the Ondo State capital.
The suspects were reportedly concealed inside a trailer loaded with bags of beans and were being transported to Akure North Local Government Area, an area that has witnessed increased cases of kidnapping and violent crimes in recent weeks.
Parading some of the suspects at the weekend, the Amotekun Corps Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed that a total of 95 suspected criminals are currently in custody.
According to him, only 34 suspects were physically presented before journalists, while the 61 individuals intercepted inside the trailer are still undergoing profiling and interrogation.
“Out of the 95 suspects in our custody, 12 were arrested in connection with kidnapping-related offences, particularly from Ilu-Abo Akure, Ayede-Akure, Iloro Camp and Ogbese. Three suspects were apprehended for violating the state’s anti-grazing law, while 19 were arrested for breaching law and order,” Adeleye said.
He explained that the arrests followed weeks of coordinated security operations involving the Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army.
Responding to concerns over rising incidents of kidnapping along the Ilu-Abo axis, Adeleye said Amotekun Rangers have established two static security posts within forest routes and deployed operatives along major highways linking affected communities.
He added that the corps is working closely with community monitors and local vigilante groups, noting that the joint effort has already foiled five attempted kidnapping incidents in the area.
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to sustained collaboration and intelligence-led operations, Adeleye said Amotekun would continue to work with all security stakeholders to curb criminal activities across Ondo State.
“Our mandate is to protect lives and property, and we will continue to work with all security stakeholders to nip crime in the bud,” he added.
Fidelis David
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