Amotekun Corps Arrests 35 Suspected Criminals Across Ondo State in Major Security Operation
The Ondo State Security Network Agency, widely known as the Amotekun Corps, has publicly paraded a total of thirty-five men over their alleged involvement in a range of criminal activities across the state. This significant security operation underscores the agency's ongoing efforts to combat crime and maintain public safety in the region.
Parade Details and Commander's Statement
The parade was conducted on Monday, March 30, at the Amotekun headquarters located in Akure, the capital of Ondo State. According to the corps' commander, Akogun Adetunji, the suspects were apprehended in various locations across all eighteen local government areas of Ondo State over the span of one week. Adetunji emphasized that the arrests were part of a coordinated crackdown aimed at reducing criminal incidents throughout the state.
Breakdown of Criminal Charges and Specific Cases
Commander Adetunji provided a detailed breakdown of the charges against the suspects. He stated, "Today, we are parading a total of 35 suspects. These individuals are involved in various criminal activities. Specifically, we arrested nineteen for breaking law and order, three for human trafficking, eleven for kidnapping, and two for rape."
Regarding the human trafficking cases, Adetunji narrated a particularly egregious incident. He explained that three suspects defrauded a victim of approximately 1.4 million cedis by falsely promising to assist in bringing someone from Togo to Nigeria to secure a Canadian visa. The victim was held hostage for about two weeks before managing to escape and report the matter to Amotekun. Operatives successfully recovered the stolen money and passports, which were returned to the victim, who has since been reunited with her family.
In addition, eleven suspects were linked to kidnapping-related cases in Akure and other local government areas, highlighting the persistent threat of abduction in the region. Adetunji also noted that six suspects were involved in stealing motorcycles. These individuals reportedly used weapons such as sticks to attack riders before dispossessing them of their motorcycles. The stolen motorcycles were then dismantled and sold as spare parts. The suspects have been arrested and will be required to reassemble the motorcycles as part of the investigative process.
Impact of Night-Time Motorcycle Ban and Enforcement Efforts
Adetunji highlighted that criminal activities have seen a significant reduction since the enforcement of a night-time ban on commercial motorcycles, commonly known as Okada. This measure has led to fewer house break-ins and related crimes, contributing to improved security in the state. The Amotekun Corps revealed that over 120 motorcycles have been impounded across the eighteen local government areas for violating this directive.
Furthermore, the corps reported that about 14,000 Okada riders have registered with the agency, and registration efforts are still ongoing. This registration process is part of a broader strategy to regulate motorcycle operations and enhance accountability among riders.
Swift Response to Distress Calls and Future Plans
Commander Adetunji also shared an example of the corps' rapid response capabilities. He narrated a swift intervention in Owo, where a Lexus Jeep was stolen. "Roads leading in and out of the town were cordoned off, and the vehicle was successfully recovered within hours," Adetunji said, demonstrating the effectiveness of Amotekun's operational tactics.
Adetunji reiterated that enforcement efforts would continue unabated, and defaulters would face sanctions in accordance with the law. He emphasized the corps' commitment to sustaining these security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents across Ondo State.
