The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has arrested nine individuals for allegedly committing a range of criminal activities across the state.
According to the PUNCH, the suspects were apprehended at different locations and are accused of crimes including kidnapping, theft, robbery, and attempted murder.
During a press briefing on Tuesday at the Amotekun headquarters in Akure, the state capital, the Commander of the corps, Adetunji Adeleye, provided details on the arrests.
He noted that the suspects have been profiled, and the necessary legal actions are underway.
“Today, we are parading nine suspects who have been involved in various criminal activities. They have been properly profiled, and appropriate actions are being taken against them,” Adeleye stated.
In addition to addressing the arrests, Adeleye highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Amotekun Corps to enforce the Ondo State Livestock and Grazing Regulations and the Establishment of Ranch Law 2021. The law, which was amended, mandates the corps to oversee and enforce peaceful coexistence between farmers, herders, and forest inhabitants.
“In line with the governor’s directives, we have established a special unit within the Amotekun Corps called ‘Amot Rangers.’
These rangers will be stationed in the forests to curb the activities of miscreants and ensure the safety of lives and property in these areas,” Adeleye announced.
The ‘Amot Rangers’ unit has been tasked with manning six major control points across troubled border areas with Edo, Kogi, Kwara, and Ekiti States. Adeleye emphasized that the corps had recently combed through four local governments in the Akoko area, successfully driving out criminal elements.
“Ondo State is not a haven for terrorists or people with malicious intent. Our message is clear: no matter how deep they hide in the forests, we are committed to ensuring their activities are curtailed,” Adeleye affirmed.
Among the arrested suspects are individuals involved in a syndicate that specializes in stealing commercial motorcycles, known locally as “okada,” and killing the riders. Adeleye revealed that two of the suspects had also attempted to kill security personnel guarding petroleum products.
“We have recovered the firearms used by these criminals before they were apprehended. The decline in the number of suspects being paraded today can be attributed to our relentless 24-hour patrols, seven days a week, across the state,” he said.
