Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, have arrested 164 suspected criminals during a week-long clearance operation carried out across the state.
The Corps Commander of the agency, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed this while parading the suspects, at the corps headquarters in Akure, the state capital.
He said that the suspects were apprehended for various offences, including three cases of suspected kidnapping, 144 breaches of law and order, one rape case, 15 cases of human trafficking, and a violation of the state’s anti-open grazing law.
He said several stolen items, including motorcycles, generators, steel, and iron materials, were recovered from the suspects.
Adeleye noted that joint operations involving Amotekun, the police, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Services have significantly reduced incidents of kidnapping, robbery, and other crimes in the state.
He said, “We arrested a total of 164 suspected criminals in the course of a week-long clearance operation across Ondo State. The offences range from suspected kidnapping and armed robbery to human trafficking, rape, breach of public peace and violation of the anti-open grazing law.
”This operation reflects our sustained commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements and ensuring the safety of lives and property,” Adeleye said.”
Adeleye identified some of the suspects as Henry and Tunde, arrested for alleged involvement in armed robbery and kidnapping. He added that Husseini, 35, was linked to armed robbery, while one Godwin was arrested over alleged murder and rape.
Other suspects include Azeez, 30, accused of arson and escape from lawful custody, alongside Ademola, Imole, and Japhet, aged between 26 and 32, who were arrested for offences ranging from conspiracy and abduction to assault on security personnel.
The commander further listed Emmanuel, 38, and Ibrahim, 20, apprehended for conspiracy, breach of peace, and possession of stolen motorcycles. Emeri and Moses were also arrested for allegedly aiding human trafficking and defrauding unsuspecting victims in Akure.
Similarly, Hassan, 24, was arrested for violating the anti-open grazing law and destroying farm produce, while Samson was nabbed for motorcycle theft. A 31-year-old suspect identified as Oke was arrested for burglary and theft of phones and accessories.
Adeleye also revealed the arrest of another suspect, Emmanuel, who allegedly specialises in burgling homes during religious services.
On the ongoing registration of commercial motorcyclists, Adeleye revealed that over 15,000 riders across the 18 Local Government Areas have been registered.
He added that only certified and accredited riders would be allowed to operate as part of efforts to distinguish legitimate operators from criminal elements.
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