The Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, has confirmed the death of one of the farmers abducted by gunmen in Okeigbo, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area. The corps also announced the rescue of five other kidnap victims in separate operations across the state.
Abduction and Ransom Demand
Gunmen had kidnapped two farmers in the Parubber Community, demanding a hefty N100 million ransom for their release. The incident occurred a few days ago, prompting an immediate response from the Amotekun Special Squad.
According to the Amotekun Commander, Adeleye, nine operatives were deployed for the rescue mission after receiving a distress call. The corps collaborated with sister security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), to track the kidnappers and locate the victims.
Rescue Operation and Tragic Outcome
The operation was intensified following a directive from the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to ensure the safe return of the victims. Adeleye reported that the victims were found deep inside a reserve forest, several kilometres from the crime scene.
“I’m glad to let you know that several kilometres away from the scene of crime, we successfully secured the release of the two of them that were kidnapped in Okeigbo,” Adeleye said. However, he noted that the kidnappers employed deceptive tactics to mislead the operatives about their location.
Sadly, one of the victims, a woman, could not be revived. “We were able to rescue a life without a problem, the man. 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 stated.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigations
In a related operation in the Ore axis of Odigbo Local Government Area, Amotekun operatives arrested suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate. “Today again, we have a group that specializes in kidnapping all in Odigbo local government. After very decisive actions, we were able to arrest the main culprits who in collaboration with some at large,” Adeleye disclosed.
Additionally, two suspects, Akinlolu and Akintimi, were arrested for alleged illegal possession of firearms. In total, nine suspects were paraded for various offences, with five linked to kidnapping.
Further Rescues and Assurance
The commander also highlighted the role of early distress signals from victims' families, which enabled Amotekun Rangers to respond swiftly. “Only yesterday night, we were equally able to rescue four men in the Ala-Dada axis that were being kidnapped,” Adeleye said.
One of the suspected kidnappers from the Okeigbo incident has been tracked to Oyo State, and arrangements are ongoing with sister agencies to apprehend him. Adeleye assured residents and potential investors of the security of lives and property across the state.
