The Ondo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun, has arrested 39 suspects who allegedly fled Sokoto State and relocated into forest reserves across Ondo State.
The State Commander of Amotekun, Mr. Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed this on Tuesday in Akure while parading the suspects alongside 22 others arrested for various criminal offences.
Adeleye said the 39 suspects were apprehended at the Elegbeka axis of Ose Local Government Area, a known security flashpoint. He explained that the suspects allegedly moved into the forests following a recent United States–backed military strike against ISIS terrorists in Northern Nigeria.
According to him, Elegbeka has remained a hotspot for criminal activities, prompting Amotekun to establish a permanent control post within the forest to combat kidnapping and armed robbery.
“For anyone to stay in forest areas, government regulations require proper permits. The sudden influx of these individuals raises serious security concerns,” Adeleye said.
He noted that the suspects were not on transit when arrested but were hiding within the forest, with their vehicles parked far from their camp. He added that investigations were ongoing and those found with incriminating materials would be prosecuted.
The commander said the arrests were part of Amotekun’s ember-month security operations, which have led to the arrest of about 100 suspects across the state, with 61 currently on parole.
He disclosed that the offences included breach of law and order, anti-open grazing violations, kidnapping-related crimes, rape and other gender-based violence cases, reaffirming Amotekun’s commitment to maintaining security across Ondo State.
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