Police Arrest Suspect Who Demanded Ransom from Victim Under Duress
The Ondo State Police Command has announced the arrest of a suspected armed robber and kidnapper whose alleged criminal activities were foiled following swift and coordinated police action.
According to the Command, the suspect, Godspower Cletus ‘m’, allegedly invaded the residence of Mrs. Farimoyo Endurance ‘f’ at Odudu Community in Akure, where he reportedly robbed her of her Android phone and ATM card while armed with a gun. During the incident, he allegedly threatened the victim and forced her to call her husband, through whom he demanded a ransom of Five Million Naira (₦5,000,000.00). Under duress, the husband transferred One Million Naira (₦1,000,000.00) into the victim’s Opay account. After confirming the payment, the suspect fled the scene, assuming he had successfully executed the crime.
However, detectives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad, through diligent intelligence gathering and proactive policing, tracked the suspect to a POS centre where he attempted to withdraw the ransom. He was subsequently arrested. Upon interrogation, he voluntarily confessed to the crime. Further investigations are ongoing to ascertain whether he has accomplices or connections to similar criminal acts within the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the swift and professional response of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad. He stated that their prompt intervention reflects the Command’s enhanced operational capacity and commitment to proactive crime prevention. He also expressed appreciation for the strategic leadership and continuous support of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, noting that the IGP’s reforms and technological initiatives continue to strengthen security operations across Ondo State.
The Command reassures members of the public of its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents, especially during the festive season and beyond. Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities to help maintain peace and public safety.
