The challenging landscape of kidnappers’ hideouts in Ondo State has made security operations hazardous and difficult for officers, according to the state Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal.
Addressing journalists in Akure on Friday, Lawal spoke on recent arrests linked to the abduction of church worshippers in Uso, located in Akure North Local Government Area.
He explained that the criminal camps are situated in treacherous, mountainous areas crisscrossed by rivers, complicating access for security personnel.
The Commissioner disclosed that pregnant women were frequently targeted by the abductors.
He noted that officers had to swim across rivers to reach the hideouts, adding that some personnel who lacked swimming skills were forced to remain behind during certain operations.
”On forest combing, our men—including SWAT, Scorpion Squad, and surveillance teams—enter the forest regularly. Some of them cannot even swim, but they crossed rivers to reach these camps.
The terrain is mountainous and covered by rivers.
“Criminals often position themselves on elevated ground to monitor movement. It is risky, but we must continue. That was how we made some arrests previously. In one case, because we were close to their location, the kidnappers released a victim.”
When questioned about the need for drones and advanced technology to strengthen security efforts, Lawal said the command was engaging the state government and other stakeholders for assistance.
He said: “On technology, we are working towards acquiring drones. We have reminded the government and approached individuals who have assured us of assistance. But we will not wait for drones before acting. We will continue bush combing operations and take the battle to them.
”In some cases, suspects were arrested when they came out to buy food. That led to the arrest of some of the suspects you have seen here.”
In a related development, the Police Commissioner confirmed that another victim from the recent Idanre attacks has died after being placed on the critical list. The latest fatality brings the total number of deaths to three, compared to the two initially confirmed on the day of the incident.
Lawal further revealed that 13 suspects have been apprehended in connection with the attacks.
The violence occurred last Wednesday during the Ward Congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC), when several individuals were assaulted. Among those critically injured was Raphael Adetimehin, younger brother of the state APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin.
Raphael Adetimehin had remained on life support after sustaining severe machete and stab wounds inflicted by the attackers before he eventually passed away. The Commissioner, however, did not disclose the identity of the latest deceased victim.
