…as Amotekun reassures of peaceful festivities

By Tola Gbadamosi

The Ondo State Commander of Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, has announced the arrest of 29 suspects, with seven others under interrogation for offences ranging from rape and burglary to attempted murder.

Providing a detailed update on the state’s security situation at the Corps Headquarters in Akure, Adeleye attributed the arrests to intensified patrols and intelligence gathering across Ondo State. He assured residents of the Corps’ unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and tackling criminal activities, especially during the festive season.

Among those paraded was Tope, apprehended for attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms. Ralph Ajanaku was accused of threatening a woman with a weapon in an attempt to rape her. Additionally, three individuals—Moses, Sunday, and Joshua—were allegedly involved in theft and issuing threats to life.

Adeleye revealed that ten suspects were linked to burglary, breaking and entering, and the sale of stolen items. He highlighted the arrest of a notorious member of a vehicle and motorcycle theft syndicate known for dismantling stolen vehicles and selling them as scrap outside the state.

The Commander also disclosed the apprehension of a serial housebreaker, who had been jailed twice in the last three years but resumed burglary activities within two weeks of his release.

In a particularly troubling case, Ajana Oluwa, a 16-year-old student of Commercial High School, Akure, confessed to raping his 24-year-old neighbour at knifepoint. Oluwa described the crime as unprovoked and expressed regret for his actions.

Another suspect, Borokini Ayodeji, a 25-year-old Eiye cultist, admitted to stealing from a hospital on Arakale Road due to hunger. Ayodeji, a trained tailor, cited poverty and lack of support as factors that drove him to the crime.

Adeleye commended the Corps’ recent achievements, noting that no incidents of kidnapping had been recorded in the state metropolis over the past two weeks. However, cases of abductions were reported at the state borders with Edo and Kogi, with efforts underway to rescue the victims.

To ensure safety during the yuletide season, the Corps has deployed 1,200 personnel across the state’s 18 local government areas, backed by regular patrols and show-of-force exercises.

The Commander urged residents to report suspicious activities using the distress hotline (08079999989) and advised against purchasing second-hand items without verifying original receipts. “If you see something, say something,” he stressed, encouraging community vigilance.

Amotekun’s operations extend beyond the state’s borders, with inter-state collaborations enhancing security at border areas. Partnerships with Ekiti, Osun, and Ogun states aim to prevent criminals from exploiting these regions as escape routes.

Adeleye revealed ongoing joint efforts with Ekiti State to resolve a high-profile case, further underscoring the Corps’ commitment to inter-state security collaboration.

One of the suspects, Sanusi Akeem, a 28-year-old web designer from Ile-Oluji, confessed to burglary, admitting to stealing items such as a television, ceiling fan, and power bank from a house. He claimed it was his first attempt at such a crime.

Meanwhile, Ajana Oluwa expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I don’t know what came over me. I regret my actions.”

Reassuring residents of their safety during the festive season, Adeleye called for cooperation to maintain peace and order. “The state is safe, and with your cooperation, we can ensure a crime-free yuletide,” he said, adding that efforts are ongoing to dismantle criminal syndicates and ensure that culprits face justice.

As Ondo State prepares for Christmas celebrations, the efforts of Amotekun Corps and the collaboration of residents are set to deliver a secure and peaceful festive period.