Ondo Police Arrest Suspected Kidnapper, Rescue Victim in Isua Akoko Operation
The Ondo State Police Command has achieved a significant breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping with the arrest of a suspected kidnapper and the successful rescue of a victim in Isua Akoko. This operation highlights the effectiveness of coordinated police efforts and public cooperation in combating violent crimes across the state.
Details of the Kidnapping Incident
According to a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the incident began when a victim was abducted by three kidnappers while engaged in cattle rearing activities in Ipesi Akoko. The victim, whose identity has been withheld for security reasons, was reported missing after failing to return home, prompting immediate police intervention.
The report was filed by one Ahmadu at the Isua Division, alerting authorities that two young men had traveled to Ipesi Akoko for cattle rearing, but only one returned. This triggered a swift and intelligence-driven response from the police, who mobilized resources to locate and rescue the kidnapped individual.
Rescue Operation and Arrest
Acting on the initial report, the Ondo State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police CP Adebowale Lawal, initiated a coordinated operation that led to the victim's rescue. During his captivity, the victim demonstrated remarkable courage by resisting his captors, inflicting a head injury on one of the suspects during the struggle.
Leveraging credible information obtained from the victim after his rescue, operatives from the Isua Division conducted a targeted raid at Obasanjo Motor Park in Isua. At approximately 0609 hours, they apprehended a suspicious individual with a visible head injury, who was later identified as part of the kidnapping gang.
Investigation and Confession
During interrogation, the arrested suspect confessed to his involvement in the kidnapping operation. The victim positively identified the suspect, specifically noting the head injury that he had inflicted during the abduction. This crucial evidence strengthened the case against the suspect and validated the police's operational tactics.
Following the rescue, the victim was immediately taken to a hospital for necessary medical attention to address any injuries sustained during the ordeal. Meanwhile, the suspect has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further investigation and will be charged to court upon completion of the investigative process.
Police Appreciation and Public Cooperation
Commissioner of Police CP Adebowale Lawal expressed gratitude for the timely and actionable information provided by members of the public, emphasizing that collaborative efforts are essential in the fight against crime and criminality. He also commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his continuous support and strategic guidance, which have significantly enhanced the operational effectiveness of the command.
The Ondo State Police Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and continue to support the police with timely and useful information to ensure community safety and security.
