The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has paraded 35 men arrested for various criminal offences across the state.
The suspects were picked up from different locations within the 18 local government areas over the past week and were presented at the agency’s headquarters in Akure.
The Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji, said the arrests were linked to crimes including kidnapping, theft, attempted rape, and human trafficking. He disclosed that 19 suspects were arrested for breaking law and order, 11 for kidnapping-related offences, three for human trafficking, and two for rape.
Speaking on the human trafficking case, Adetunji explained that three suspects allegedly defrauded a victim of about 1.4 million cedis under the guise of arranging travel from Togo to Nigeria to secure a Canadian visa. The victim was reportedly held hostage for about two weeks before escaping and alerting authorities. He added that the stolen money and passports were recovered and returned, while the victim has since reunited with her family.
On kidnapping, the commander noted that 11 suspects were linked to cases in Akure and other parts of the state. He added that crime rates have dropped significantly following the enforcement of a night-time ban on commercial motorcycles, which has helped reduce incidents like house break-ins.
Adetunji also revealed that six suspects were involved in motorcycle theft. According to him, they attacked riders using sticks, stole their bikes, dismantled them, and sold the parts. The suspects have been arrested and will be made to reassemble the stolen motorcycles.
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He further highlighted a rapid response operation in Owo, where a stolen Lexus Jeep was recovered within hours after security operatives blocked all exit routes from the town.
The corps also disclosed that over 120 motorcycles have been impounded for violating the ban on night-time commercial motorcycle operations. So far, about 14,000 riders have registered with the agency, with registration still ongoing.
Adetunji assured residents that the agency would sustain its enforcement efforts and ensure that offenders are brought to justice.
