Ondo Police Apprehend Four Suspected Kidnappers in Major Security Breakthrough
The Ondo State Police Command has achieved a significant breakthrough in its fight against violent crime with the arrest of four suspected kidnappers linked to a brutal attack in the Liberty Avenue area of Ilu-Abo, Akure North Local Government Area. The operation also led to the recovery of N1.4 million in suspected ransom money, marking a crucial victory for law enforcement in the state.
Details of the Violent Incident and Police Response
According to police reports, the criminal incident occurred on Sunday, January 25, 2026, when six armed men launched a coordinated attack on the community. The assailants first targeted businessman John Ofuduwa, an iron dealer, who was ambushed and shot in the head as he attempted to enter his compound. Tragically, Ofuduwa later succumbed to his injuries.
During their escape, the gunmen abducted a woman identified as Tomiola Oladehinde at the entrance of her residence. The kidnapping was reportedly part of their escape strategy after the violent assault on Ofuduwa.
Intelligence-Driven Operation Leads to Arrests
DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Police Public Relations Officer for Ondo State Command, confirmed the developments in an official statement released on Friday, March 6, 2026. The statement detailed how police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, collaborated with the Ondo State Security Network (Amotekun Corps) to track down the suspects.
The intelligence indicated that suspected kidnappers had taken up lodging in a hotel located behind Ado Garage in Akure. Police tactical teams immediately mobilized to verify the information and apprehend the suspects.
Suspects Identified and Evidence Recovered
The operation resulted in the arrest of four individuals: Abdullahi Ismaila (20), Babanyara Japi (25), Babuga Abubakar (25), and Adama Usman (15). During their apprehension, authorities discovered the suspects in possession of N1.4 million in cash, which police strongly believe represents proceeds from kidnapping activities.
The recovered money has been taken into police custody as evidence, while preliminary investigations have revealed that the suspects confessed to their involvement in the crime. Police identified them as members of a criminal syndicate operating in the Eleyowo, Ilu-Abo, and Ogbese axis of the state.
Victim Identification and Ongoing Investigations
Significantly, the kidnapped victim, Oladeinde Tomilola, who was later released, was able to positively identify the arrested suspects. She has expressed appreciation to the police command for their swift response and efforts that led to the arrests.
The Ondo State Police Command has now commenced comprehensive investigations to determine the full extent of the suspects' criminal activities, which may include kidnapping, armed robbery, and other related offenses within the state and possibly beyond its borders.
Police Commitment to Combating Crime
Police Commissioner Adebowale Lawal emphasized the command's unwavering commitment to combating kidnapping, robbery, cultism, and other violent crimes across Ondo State. The commissioner noted that this development demonstrates the sustained efforts and dedication of the police force toward creating a safer environment for residents.
In line with the vision of Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu regarding effective policing and strengthened security collaboration, the command continues to maintain robust synergy with the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) and other security stakeholders. This partnership aims to sustain the relative peace currently enjoyed in the state.
Public Cooperation Encouraged
The police command has encouraged members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing timely, credible, and actionable information that can assist in preventing crime and apprehending offenders. Authorities have also advised victims of criminal activities to avail themselves for debriefing, as this will greatly assist ongoing efforts to combat crime and criminality in the region.
Efforts are currently underway to track down other members of the criminal network and establish whether the arrested suspects are connected to other previously reported kidnapping incidents in Ondo State. The police have assured residents that all necessary operational and intelligence-driven strategies are being deployed to ensure criminals have no safe haven within the state.
