…bans unregistered vehicles from public roads

By Tola Gbadamosi

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Concerned by the recent surge in criminal activities across Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has reaffirmed the ban on okada operations in the State from 8pm to 5am, with immediate effect.

The decision followed a rise in criminal activities such as kidnapping, robbery, and assault, many of which have been linked to unidentified Okada riders.

The state commander of the Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, announced the commencement of enforcement of the directive while parading 61 suspected criminals arrested for various crimes across the state at the corps headquarters in Akure, yesterday.

According to him, “only those on essential duties, with valid identifications, will be exempted. Law enforcement officers have been mandated to arrest violators across the state.”

Adeleye emphasised that the restriction on okada operations at night is not a new policy but a reinforcement of an existing directive.

“Previously, the ban was in effect from 6pm, but after considering public concerns, the government adjusted it to 8pm,” he stated.

Parading the suspects at the command’s headquarters in Akure yesterday, Akogun Adeleye stated that both the victims and the arrested culprits were present, with the victims identifying their abductors.

According to him, “one of the significant breakthroughs recorded was the dismantling of a 28-member syndicate involved in kidnapping, human trafficking, and cattle rustling.

“This group deceived unsuspecting individuals with false promises of U.S. visa procurement.

“We have 28 Ghanaian nationals who were invited to Akure under fraudulent pretenses, upon arrival, they were extorted; some paying between $1,500 and $2,000, only to be kidnapped and held in Oda.

“The syndicate asked them to bring in new victims before they could be released. However, due to the intelligence efforts of the Amotekun Corps, we successfully intercepted and rescued them.

The Corps also revealed details about the operations of an international syndicate.

” The group lured unsuspecting individuals in foreign countries by promising assistance with U.S. or Canadian visa processing for a fee of $1,500 – $5,000.

” Victims are told that the only route to the opportunities is through Nigeria. Upon arrival in Lagos, agents pick them up, transport them to Akure, seize their money, and hold them hostage until they recruit another victim. Families from Ghana, some of whom were present at the briefing, shared their harrowing experiences,” Adeleye said.

Additionally, the Corps rescued a family of five from kidnappers without any ransom payment, and a family of four was also freed, despite the kidnappers’ attempt to extort $10 million.

“Intelligence led to the recovery of $210,000 from the kidnappers and the successful release of the victims.

Akogun Adeleye added, that several arrests were made in connection with cattle rustling and violations of the Anti-Open Grazing Law.

“Among the notable suspects is one Sylvester, a known kidnapper on the Corps’ watchlist, apprehended in Old Jarajakure.

“Others, including Olaudah Akimuyi and Anthony, were also arrested for similar offences. In another case, Blessing Imafidon was arrested in Araro Miyakure for attempted murder.

Besides, several cultists were apprehended with firearms, including Abdullahi Subewu and Abiodun Edward in Owo and Ikare.

Among the suspects arrested, one was alleged of attacking an Amotekun officer with a machete after the officer refused to accept a bribe.

“Security agencies, in collaboration with ‘Operation Dada’, also arrested individuals dismantling critical federal assets such as aluminium conductors and wires in the Arimogija boundary between Ondo and Edo States.

“Out of the 61 suspected criminals paraded, 28 have already been arraigned in courts, with those denied bail currently held in correctional facilities.

The Ondo State government, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has established a dedicated committee and security team to address the recent surge in insecurity.

“This initiative led to the formation of Operation Dada, a collaborative effort involving the Amotekun Corps, the police, the army, and the civil defence.

“Coordinated operations have been conducted in the Aladada Ago’o Igbo Forest, extending into Ose, Akure North, and Akure South local government areas.

The Amotekun Corps Commander reassured residents of Ondo State that their safety remains a top priority.

Adeleye urged the public to continue their normal activities as security agencies remain committed to apprehending criminals.

“We appreciate the public for providing actionable intelligence. Remember our slogan: ‘If you see something, say something.’ We guarantee the confidentiality of all information provided.

” Over the last five years, we have never disclosed any source of intelligence and will maintain this policy,” he stated.

For distress calls, the public is advised to contact the Amotekun Corps at 0807-99-99989.

The Corps commended the Ondo State Police command for their support in ensuring his capture.

The security agency also warned young individuals seeking opportunities abroad to engage only with credible sources.

“The 28 suspected kidnappers arrested have defrauded thousands, operating as an international syndicate led by a Ghanaian national who is still at large.

“Illegal occupation of forests in Ondo State will not be tolerated. Anyone residing in the state’s forest reserves must obtain government authorisation.

“This directive has been communicated to relevant stakeholders, including the Miyetti Allah leadership.

Additionally, security agencies at state borders have been directed to turn back any trucks carrying more than 10 undocumented individuals.

” Effective one week from today, all unregistered vehicles and those using fake dealers’ numbers or plates must regularise their status or face legal consequences.

“Many criminals operate under false registration details, and this measure is aimed at closing that loophole.

“These initiatives by the Ondo State government aim to ensure that residents and commuters can conduct their daily activities without fear.

“Border patrols and the 24/7 operations of the Ondo State Security Network Agency have been strengthened.

” Operation Dada remains active, with the armoured rangers intensifying efforts in the forests, while officers across the 18 local government areas remain on high alert.

“With the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies intensifying their efforts, the Ondo State government remains committed to ensuring security, enforcing regulations, and creating economic opportunities for its citizens.