Ondo Police Nab 69 Crime Suspects, Rescue Victims, Recover Arms in Statewide Crackdown
27 the February, 2026
The Ondo State Police Command has recorded sweeping operational successes in its intensified war against crime, arresting 69 suspects across major offences including kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery and homicide between January and February 2026.
Addressing journalists at the Command headquarters, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, PSC(+), MNIPS, disclosed that the arrests followed sustained intelligence-led operations, strategic deployments and coordinated security actions across the state.
The Command also confirmed the recovery of firearms, live ammunition, ransom money, stolen vehicles and motorcycles, alongside the rescue of eight victims from criminal hideouts.
Uso Church Abduction: 11 Arrested, One Victim Rescued
In a major breakthrough, the Command arrested eleven suspects in connection with the abduction of worshippers at a Celestial Church along the Uso/Owo Expressway in the early hours of February 25, 2026.
Six worshippers were initially abducted during the attack. Following joint operations involving police operatives, the Nigerian Army and local vigilantes, one victim was rescued while 11 suspects were apprehended.
Police say investigations are ongoing to dismantle the criminal network and rescue the remaining victims. Religious leaders have been advised to temporarily review late-night activities and strengthen security measures around places of worship.
Kidnapping Syndicate Busted in Akure
On February 23, 2026, operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Section, supported by visiting PMF personnel approved by the Inspector-General of Police, swooped on suspected kidnappers along Ondo Road, Akure.
Ten suspects were arrested during the intelligence-driven operation. Police recovered ransom money — including burnt currency notes — and an operational motorcycle used by the syndicate.
Two Arrested Over Kidnapping Operations
Earlier, on February 11, two suspects were arrested through technical intelligence and tracking analysis. Investigations revealed they allegedly provided logistics and reconnaissance support to kidnapping gangs, using motorcycles to aid operations. Their motorcycles were recovered as exhibits.
13 Arrested Over Idanre Violent Attack
Thirteen suspects were apprehended in connection with a violent attack in Idanre that led to two deaths, three injuries and destruction of property.
Police say the arrests followed a coordinated intelligence-led sweep across strategic locations. The suspects are currently in custody and assisting investigators.
Ijapo Arrest: Ransom Money Recovered
In another operation, officers of the Ijapo Division arrested three suspected kidnappers after recovering ₦291,500 suspected to be ransom proceeds. The money was bundled in ₦10,000 denominations — a pattern police say is consistent with ransom payments. The case has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for further investigation.
Live Ammunition Intercepted
On February 26, police intercepted two suspects along the Akunu–Iyere Road during a routine stop-and-search. A live round of AK-47 ammunition was recovered. Preliminary findings indicate the suspects allegedly fled from Kogi State and are linked to a kidnapping syndicate.
Crime Statistics: January 2026 Till Date
According to the Command, the following arrests were recorded:
Kidnapping – 30
Murder/Homicide – 10
Unlawful Possession of Firearms – 15
Armed Robbery – 17
Rape/Defilement – 5
Cultism – 41
Other Offences – 168
Recovered exhibits include:
15 firearms
35 rounds of ammunition
6 motor vehicles
11 motorcycles
8 rescued victims
CP Lawal reiterated that the Command remains committed to intelligence-led policing, proactive patrols and strengthened community partnerships to sustain peace and security across Ondo State.
He called on residents to remain vigilant and provide timely, credible information to security agencies, emphasizing that safety remains a collective responsibility.
The Command assured that operations will continue to be intensified to ensure law and order throughout the state.
