Police arrest two suspected kidnap logistics suppliers in Ondo
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate accused of supplying food, drinks and other logistics to bandits operating in parts of the state.
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate accused of supplying food, drinks and other logistics to bandits operating in parts of the state.
The suspects, identified as Abubakar Sindiku, 25, and Oliver Okoh, 35, were apprehended at Sabo Sango Road and Ilado communities, respectively, following intelligence-led operations by the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit.
Their arrest followed the abduction of a couple at Olaribigba Estate in Ilu Abo, where gunmen carried out an attack last week.
The victims, Jamiu Olawale, a butcher, and his wife, were reportedly returning home from their shop in an ash-coloured Toyota Camry when they were ambushed.
During the incident, the assailants also shot a neighbour, Patrick Ilumaro, who was seated in front of his residence. Ilumaro is currently hospitalised and receiving treatment for gunshot injuries.
In response to the attack, residents staged a protest over the weekend, condemning the rising cases of kidnapping and deteriorating security in the community.
Confirming the arrests on Monday in a statement issued to journalists in Akure, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi, said the suspects were nabbed through credible tracking analysis and technical intelligence.
Abayomi noted that the suspects were apprehended in connection with an ongoing investigation into a kidnapping case within the State, adding that the duo is assisting investigators with useful information.
"Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects belong to a kidnapping syndicate," DSP Abayomi said.
He added, "They (suspects) reportedly used their motorcycles for reconnaissance, gathering information about potential targets, and providing logistics support, including supplying food and other operational accessories to members of the syndicate.
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He added that the motorcycles and other tools used in facilitating the criminal activities had been recovered, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend other members of the group.
The command, however, urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies to help curb crime in the state.
"Investigation is ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and ensure they are brought to justice."
"Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely, credible, and actionable information to security agencies," the police spokesman added.
Residents, especially landlords in Ilu Abo community of Akure North LGA, have expressed growing frustration over a resurgence of insecurity in the area.
Many living in the community’s new site have appealed to the state government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to provide adequate protection.
Reports indicate that at least 20 residents have fallen victim to the criminal activities of gunmen terrorising the largely agrarian community.
