Amotekun Corps Arrests 164 Suspects, Parades Kidnappers and Armed Robbers in Ondo
Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, widely known as the Amotekun Corps, have conducted a significant crackdown on criminal activities, resulting in the arrest of 164 suspects. The suspects, including two alleged kidnappers and armed robbers, were paraded at the corps headquarters in Alagbaka, Akure, the state capital.
Details of the Arrests and Operations
Commander Adetunji Adeleye, the head of the Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, disclosed that the arrests were made during a week-long clearance operation across various parts of the state. The suspects were apprehended in locations such as Owo, the headquarters of Owo Local Council Area, and the Oloko axis of Akure metropolis. Adeleye emphasized that these operations were carried out jointly with other security agencies in the state, highlighting a collaborative effort to enhance public safety.
Among the 164 suspects paraded, 144 were arrested for breaches of law and order, with additional cases including one rape, 15 instances of human trafficking, and one violation of the state's anti-open grazing law. Several stolen items, including motorcycles, generators, steel, and iron materials, were recovered from the suspects, underscoring the scale of the criminal activities disrupted.
Notable Cases and Suspects
Adeleye provided specific details on some of the key suspects. For example, one Godwin was arrested over allegations of murder and rape, while Azeez, aged 30, was accused of arson and escaping from lawful custody. Other individuals, such as Ademola, Imole, and Japhet, aged between 26 and 32, were arrested for offences ranging from conspiracy and abduction to assault on security personnel.
Further arrests included Emmanuel, 38, and Ibrahim, 20, who were apprehended for conspiracy, breach of peace, and possession of stolen motorcycles. Emeri and Moses were also taken into custody for allegedly aiding human trafficking and defrauding unsuspecting victims in Akure. In a separate case, 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 named Emmanuel, who allegedly specializes in burgling homes during religious services. Additionally, Alabi Ahmed and Victor were apprehended in Itaogbolu, Akure North, for conspiracy and theft in separate operations, demonstrating the widespread nature of the criminal network targeted.
Registration of Commercial Motorcyclists
In related efforts to curb crime, Adeleye discussed the ongoing registration of commercial motorcyclists in the state. He revealed that over 15,000 riders across the 18 local government areas have been registered so far. This initiative aims to distinguish legitimate operators from criminals by allowing only certified and accredited riders to operate, thereby enhancing security and accountability in the transportation sector.
The Amotekun Corps continues to play a crucial role in maintaining law and order in Ondo State, with these recent arrests serving as a testament to their commitment to combating crime and protecting residents.
