Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, commonly known as Amotekun, have apprehended four individuals believed to be members of a criminal gang that has been terrorizing multiple areas of the state. The suspects are accused of involvement in a series of robbery attacks and kidnappings that have plagued the region over the past eight months.
Commander Reveals Details
Adetunji Adeleye, the Commander of the Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, disclosed this information while parading the suspects alongside others arrested for various offenses. He stated that the gang had been receiving instructions from an individual outside the state to carry out their crimes.
Adeleye confirmed that the suspects have been handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further investigation. He emphasized that the suspects have confessed to their involvement in the crimes, particularly those contributing to the instability in the state.
Prosecution of Suspects
The Amotekun Commander also revealed that no fewer than 142 suspected criminals, arrested over the past month for offenses including kidnapping, anti-grazing violations, farmers' clashes, and cultism, are currently facing prosecution.
He stated, “The state has been troubled in recent months by numerous criminal activities, such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and other vices. Through credible intelligence and the diligent efforts of the operational department of the corps, we were able to uncover the root of these criminal elements.”
Dismantling Criminal Networks
Adeleye added, “Some of these criminal elements had very sinister motives, but with the support of the Ondo State government and all security agencies, we were able to nip them in the bud. Specifically, the group responsible for violent robbery attacks, kidnapping, and destruction of properties, whose leader took directives from outside the state, was apprehended.”
He continued, “Their supply line was broken, and other members were captured in a fierce operation by Amotekun operatives. Due to the sensitive nature of their activities, they will be handed over to the DSS for further interrogation and possible prosecution. This brings relief to the people of Ondo State, as their enclaves in the forests have been dismantled. We will continue to collaborate with the police, army, DSS, and Civil Defence.”
