Crime
Police arrest three suspected kidnappers, rescue two victims in Ondo
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested three suspected kidnappers and rescued two victims during a joint security operation in Isua-Akoko, Akoko South-East Local Government Area of the state.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun, following intelligence on the activities of suspected kidnappers operating in the area.
The police command disclosed the development in a statement issued by its spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, in Akure on Tuesday.
According to the command, the two victims were rescued unhurt during the operation, while the security team also recovered ₦1.5 million suspected to be ransom money.
The police identified the arrested suspects as Abdullahi Abubakar, Ibrahim Abubakar and Oseni Abubakar, all reportedly residents of the Akunnu area.
The command said the suspects were arrested in connection with the kidnapping operation and are currently assisting investigators with information as the investigation continues.
The recovery of the suspected ransom money is also being examined as part of the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the abduction.
The two victims were rescued during the security operation and were reported to be in good condition.
The police did not disclose the identities of the victims or provide details about how long they had been in captivity.
The command said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and improve security in communities across Ondo State.
The latest arrests come amid continuing security operations against kidnapping and other violent crimes in parts of Ondo State.
The police command has continued to work with local security formations, including Amotekun, in intelligence gathering and operations aimed at locating criminal hideouts and rescuing abducted persons.
The arrested suspects are expected to undergo further investigation before being processed in accordance with the law.
The police also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with useful information about suspicious movements and criminal activities in their communities.
The command said its collaboration with other security agencies and community stakeholders would continue as part of efforts to prevent kidnapping and protect residents across the state.