By Tola Gbadamosi

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As part of ongoing efforts to curb crime across Ondo State, the Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, has paraded 31 suspected criminals apprehended over the past two weeks from various parts of the state.

The parade, held at the Corps Headquarters in Akure, coincided with a review of the agency’s achievements in the first quarter of 2025.

According to him, “the first quarter of 2025 has been particularly eventful from a security standpoint. Numerous incidents have kept the Corps alert and active, but we thank Almighty God that the current situation remains under control.

“From January to date, the Amotekun Corps has responded to over 500 distress calls. Within this period, approximately 750 suspected criminals have been profiled.

He added; “These arrests span a range of offences, including kidnapping, armed robbery, housebreaking, rape, cultism, human trafficking, and fraud. Of those apprehended, about 175 suspects have been formally charged in court, while others are undergoing investigation.

“One notable operation this quarter involved a potential crisis between herders and farmers at the Owena Dam axis. In that incident, herders vandalised farm produce estimated at a value of approximately ₦265,000.

“However, the Corps intervened and successfully mediated the situation to prevent escalation.”

“On or around February 14, operatives of the Amotekun Rangers intercepted two trucks carrying 114 individuals with no fixed address.

“Upon interrogation, it was revealed that they intended to settle in Ondo State’s forests without any justifiable reason.

“These individuals were promptly returned to their respective states of origin at the government’s expense.

“This action followed a directive from the State Government under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, mandating that any persons without credible reasons for residing in forest areas be evacuated.”

“During this same period, two unprovoked attacks occurred in remote farming communities in Akure North Local Government area. In response, the government deployed a multi-agency security operation tagged Operation Daada, comprising the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the military, and Amotekun.

“This joint operation has since secured the Akure North region and the Ondo-Edo boundary. The collaboration has yielded positive results, including arrests deep within forested areas.

“Furthermore, the Corps recovered approximately $5,000 from a syndicate specialising in visa fraud. Twenty-eight Ghanaians were deceived into coming to Akure under the pretence of assistance in securing U.S. visas.

“The perpetrators were arrested, and the funds were returned to the victims, who have since been advised to return to their home country.”

On cult-related activities, he noted, “We experienced near breakdowns of law and order in parts of the Northern Senatorial District of the state.

“Over 150 cultists were arrested and profiled. More than 80 of them signed undertakings in court renouncing cultism, with a warning that re-arrest would result in full prosecution.

“Those involved in violent acts are currently being prosecuted and remain in correctional custody.”

“We extend our deep appreciation to our ever caring and supportive Governor, Hon Aiyedatiwa, for his continued support, particularly through the implementation of the enhanced Amotekun Southwest Salary Scale, an initiative that has greatly boosted the morale of our officers and men.

“We remain committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property throughout Ondo State, working closely with all other security agencies.”

Akogun Adeleye also appreciated the general public for their consistent support, especially for the timely information they provide, which enables the Corps to act swiftly and effectively.