Amotekun Busts Criminal Den, Arrests 61 Suspects Hidden in truck
The authorities of the Amotekun Security Network Agency in conjunction with other security agencies in the state, have cracked down on a criminal den and arrested several suspects hidden in a truck. In recent times, no fewer than 95 suspected criminals have been apprehended in a sweeping collaborative operation across Ondo State, with 34 suspects paraded and 61 others currently undergoing profiling.
The large-scale operation was spearheaded by the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Services.
Addressing journalists, the State Commander of Amotekun, Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed that 61 of the suspects were intercepted while being transported in a trailer along the volatile Akure North axis. The area has recently recorded repeated incidents of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
According to Adeleye, security operatives acted on credible intelligence before stopping the trailer, which was conveying the suspects under suspicious circumstances.
“We have intensified operations across flashpoints, particularly in Akure North. Acting on intelligence, we intercepted a trailer conveying 61 individuals. They are currently undergoing profiling and investigation to determine their level of involvement in criminal activities,” he said.
Security sources indicated that the interception forms part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal syndicates allegedly operating within forest reserves and border communities across the state.
Breakdown of Arrests
Of the 34 suspects paraded before journalists, 19 were arrested for breach of law and order, three were linked to anti-grazing disputes between farmers and herders, while 12 were apprehended in connection with kidnapping cases.
The kidnapping suspects were arrested in communities including Ilu-Abo, Ayede-Akure, Iloro, Oba-Ile, and around the Akure North Airport axis. Authorities stated that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the degree of their involvement in the alleged crimes.
In a related development, a suspect identified as Velo was arrested over alleged attempted fraud, ritual-related activities, and suspected links to kidnapping.
A 30-year-old suspect, David, was apprehended over allegations of fraud and threat to life, while another suspect, Michael, was arrested for alleged theft.
Cattle Rustling and Illegal Mining
Security operatives also arrested Ali Abubakar, who reportedly confessed to stealing 50 cows belonging to another Fulani herder. He was said to have expressed willingness to assist authorities in recovering the remaining livestock.
In separate incidents, suspects identified as Gbenga (27), Abiodun (37), and Adebayo (29) were arrested for allegedly stealing iron rods, roofing sheets, and a generator. Another suspect, Ajibade (31), was apprehended in Ajue for allegedly stealing an air conditioner.
Two other suspects, Monday (28) and Ibrahim (25), were arrested in the Shasha area for allegedly receiving stolen property. Ibrahim was reportedly found in possession of the stolen items at the time of arrest.
On illegal mining activities, a suspect identified as Usman was arrested for allegedly attempting to kill the owner of a parcel of land believed to contain gold deposits. Others arrested in connection with illegal mining include Abubakar, Aruna, Amodu (55), and Suleiman (20). Authorities noted that some of the suspects are also being investigated for possible links to kidnapping.
Anti-Grazing Violations
Three suspects — Omaru, Jubril, and Azam — were arrested for alleged violations of anti-grazing regulations, amid persistent tensions between farmers and herders in parts of the state.
Security agencies expressed optimism that the sustained joint operations, particularly in Akure North, would significantly curb criminal activities and restore public confidence.
Reaffirming the corps’ resolve, Adeleye warned criminal elements to desist or face decisive action.
“Ondo State is not a safe haven for criminals. We will continue to collaborate with sister agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property,” he stated.
Authorities added that investigations are ongoing and further arrests may be made in the coming days.
