By Tola Gbadamosi

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, have once again showcased their alertness and operational efficiency by rescuing eight kidnapped passengers in the Akoko North axis of the state.

The timely response, followed by a distress call, thwarted what could have escalated into yet another tragic case of abduction for ransom.

Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, revealed the successful operation to The Hope Metro at the Corps’ command headquarters, in Akure.

According to Adeleye, the incident occurred between Ase and Isua, near Ishe, Iboropa, and Ugbe locations frequently targeted by criminal elements.

He said: “Today is another good story, between these towns, kidnappers struck, but one of the victims managed to alert our distress call number.

“Fortunately, we have a mobile Amotekun unit stationed near the Edo-Ondo boundary around the Ibilo area who responded swiftly.”

“The operation led to the safe recovery of eight individuals, including Samuel Okunola, the driver of one of the two attacked vehicles, which had departed Ibilo for Ikare.

“Other rescued passengers included individuals identified simply as Alausa, Kasali, Paul, Sani, and Moses.

“The driver of the second vehicle sustained machete wounds and is currently receiving medical treatment, while six other passengers with minor injuries were also rescued from the forest.

Adeleye issued a stern warning to the public, particularly farmers, urging them to report any suspicious activity, especially involving armed herders.

“The Ondo State government does not permit anyone to use firearms while rearing cows. If you see anyone doing so, report immediately.

“They are not invisible; people see them every day. The Amotekun Corps can respond within three minutes anywhere in the state,” he said.

He further emphasized the state’s unwavering stance against ransom payments.

“All those rescued were freed without paying a dime. Ondo State has said no to kidnapping for ransom,” he stated.

The Ajiroba of Ugbe land, Chief Fatai Aliu,  commended the government and the Amotekun Corps for their swift and courageous response.

 “We thank the Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for empowering Amotekun. As soon as the attack happened, Amotekun was there, exchanging gunfire and rescuing the victims. We are grateful,” he said.

Narrating his ordeal, the 52-year-old driver, Samuel Okunola expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying we were on our way from Ibilo when they attacked us, thank God Amotekun was close by.

“They came immediately, and no ransom was paid. They chased the kidnappers away. We thank God and His Excellency for supporting Amotekun.”

This latest operation underscores the growing effectiveness of Amotekun in combating insecurity and sends a strong message to criminal elements, that Ondo State is no longer a safe haven for kidnappers.