In a disturbing breakthrough, police operatives in Ondo State have uncovered a suspected kidnappers’ den tucked away in an abandoned, uncompleted building in Epinmi Akoko, Akoko South East Local Government Area. The shocking discovery included a deep underground pit believed to have been used to confine victims—a grim sign of organized abduction activity.
Two suspects, Arohunmolase Idowu (25) and Bada Tosin (26), both residents of Epinmi Akoko, have been arrested in connection with the case and were paraded before journalists by the state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi.
According to CP Afolabi, the operation was triggered by credible intelligence and the swift response of local vigilante operatives working in collaboration with the police. Idowu was first apprehended after being found loitering suspiciously at odd hours and failing to give a satisfactory account of his movements.
“The operatives of the Epinmi Vigilante Group apprehended Arohunmolase Idowu,” Afolabi explained. “Upon further investigation and interrogation, the second suspect, Bada Tosin, was tracked down and arrested.”
The suspects then led the security operatives to a secluded structure deep in the bush. A search of the building uncovered a cache of deadly weapons, including two locally made dane guns, four cutlasses, four axes, and various charms believed to be used for rituals or protection.
But the most shocking discovery was a deep, concealed pit within the structure—strong evidence pointing to its use as a holding cell for kidnapped victims.
Both suspects and the recovered exhibits have since been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further investigation. CP Afolabi assured the public that the police remain committed to eliminating criminal networks in the state.
“This disturbing find underscores the serious threat of kidnapping in our region,” Afolabi said. “But with the continued cooperation of the public and community vigilantes, we will keep rooting out these criminals.”
The revelation has triggered renewed fears about the state of security in Ondo, with calls for increased surveillance of abandoned buildings and stronger community policing efforts.
