The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has paraded 28 suspects arrested for various criminal offences across the state, including a father and his three sons accused of masterminding a kidnapping operation in Ondo North Senatorial District.

 

Speaking during the parade at the corps' headquarters in Akure, the Commander of Amotekun, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, alleged that the suspects used their herd of cattle as a cover to carry out criminal activities.

 

The family members were identified as Iliasu (56) and his sons, Usman (33), Wahab (27), and Yakubu (18).

 

According to Adeleye, the eldest son, who had allegedly fled the state about two years ago following previous criminal activities, recently returned to coordinate the abduction of a traveller heading to Oba Akoko in Akoko South-West Local Government Area.

 

He disclosed that despite the payment of ransom by the victim's family, the victim remained in captivity because the kidnappers had allegedly warned relatives against informing security agencies.

 

Displaying the recovered ransom, Adeleye stressed that Amotekun does not encourage the payment of ransom to kidnappers.

 

> "That is the money on display. Amotekun is not involved in ransom payments, so we are not interested in how much was paid. As far as the corps is concerned, we do not encourage the payment of ransom. Since the money belongs to the family, it is being returned to them," he said.

 

 

 

The commander also announced the arrest of seven suspects identified as Mohammed, Tekasu, Rabi, Abubakar, Saibu, Kalij, and Adamu for alleged armed banditry.

 

In a separate operation, Ayodele (26), Oluwatobi (24), and Michael (34) were arrested over alleged illegal possession of firearms, robbery, and cult-related activities.

 

Another suspect, identified as Olagi, was arrested for alleged rape and stealing.

 

Adeleye further disclosed that Idowu and Taiwo were apprehended in Akure South Local Government Area over alleged conspiracy and theft of a generator, while Abdul (27), Amodu David, and another suspect identified only as 39 were arrested in connection with the alleged theft of food items.

 

The Amotekun commander added that Akpaba Felix (30), Agbonuma Abigail (25), Mak (24), Kelvin (24), Kuma (27), and Tuk (24) were arrested at Oke-Ijebu, Akure, over alleged conspiracy and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.

 

Adeleye reaffirmed the corps' commitment to combating kidnapping, banditry, robbery, cultism, rape, and other criminal activities across Ondo State, assuring residents that Amotekun would continue to work with other security agencies to protect lives and property.