The Ondo State Security Network, also known as Amotekun, has confirmed the death of one of two people kidnapped on Friday at Parubber community in Ileoluji-Okeigbo Local Government Area. The commander, Adetunji Adeleye, announced the death during a press conference in Akure on Monday.
Rescue Operation and Victim's Death
Mr Adeleye explained that the deceased, whose name was not given, died from stress she suffered while operatives chased the abductors. The second victim, a man, survived and was rescued. Both victims worked at a livestock farm in the community.
The gunmen, masked and armed with AK-47 rifles, emerged from the bush, kidnapped the workers, and demanded a ransom of N100 million. Yemi Omowale, a witness, narrowly escaped abduction during the incident.
Security Response and Governor's Directive
The police and other security agencies responded, promising to track the kidnappers. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa gave a marching order to Amotekun to ensure the victims' rescue. Mr Adeleye stated that combined efforts led to the rescue several kilometres from the crime scene.
“I think every day they are coming up with new strategies and that is why we equally developed non-kinetic measures in addition to intelligence-driven bush combing that we did,” he said. “But unfortunately, by the time we got there, the lady was exhausted, and we couldn’t revive her because we met her dead or unconscious.”
He noted that the man was rescued alive after being taken deep into the forest. “But the good news is that we have sent signals by this action that there is no hiding place for criminals in Ondo State,” he added.
Arrests and Other Operations
Amotekun also arrested suspects specializing in kidnapping and cattle rustling in Ore, Ode-Aye, Ofosu, and Omotosho, all in Odigbo Local Government Area. Mr Adeleye said, “After very decisive actions, we were able to arrest the main culprits who, in collaboration with some at large, also stole these cows in three different locations; we have them here. We have those who bought these cows from him. He has ready markets across the state where he sends the cows to for sale at very ridiculous prices.”
He added, “They say cows are sold under 100,000 at times. We have them here. This goes far to show that the best criminals can do is to vacate Ondo State. These cow rustlers and their collaborators are on parade.”
Additionally, Amotekun paraded two persons, Akinlolu and Akintimi, charged with illegal possession of firearms, and Jamiu, 30, who specializes in vandalizing houses under construction, removing electrical cables, plumbing, and other items.
Mr Adeleye said Ondo State is safe based on current crime records. On Sunday, Amotekun rescued two men kidnapped in the Ala-Dada axis after a distress call, deploying personnel to search the forest successfully.
