Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested five individuals suspected of involvement in the kidnapping of two young brothers in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area. The arrests were made following an intelligence-driven operation by the Command's Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad.
Details of the Abduction
The victims, 10-year-old Jehu and his five-year-old brother Yohana, were reportedly abducted on May 12 while on their way to school near the Jerry Sawmill Area of Ore. Their father, Andrew Yohana, promptly reported the incident to the police.
How Police Tracked the Suspects
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, stated that detectives moved swiftly after visiting the scene. Through painstaking technical intelligence, tracking analysis, and coordinated investigative efforts, operatives were able to uncover the identities and locations of the suspects. Two suspects, Taofeek Lukman, 23, and Blessing Saturday, 27, were first arrested around the Alaba Area of Ore. Police also recovered N251,000 believed to be part of the ransom paid by the family before the children were released.
Recovered Items
During subsequent raids on hideouts, officers recovered an unregistered lady motorcycle allegedly used in the kidnapping. Three more suspects were arrested: Peter Moses, 25, Sunday Isaac, 23, and Sanusi Dan Asabe, 37. The suspects have provided statements detailing their alleged involvement, and detectives are searching for other fleeing members of the group.
Police Commissioner Commends Efforts
The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Felix Ohagwu, praised the anti-kidnapping squad for their professional and intelligence-based handling of the case. He also commended the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for supporting intelligence-led policing across the country. Ohagwu attributed recent successes to the IGP's strategic leadership and proactive crime-fighting strategies.
Appeal to the Public
The command urged residents to continue sharing useful information with security agencies to support efforts aimed at reducing crime in Ondo State.
