By Tola Gbadamosi
In a renewed effort to rid Ondo State of criminal elements, the Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has directed the establishment of a specialised unit within the Amotekun Corps called “Amot Rangers.”
These rangers will operate from six newly established control points within the state’s forests to counter the activities of criminals terrorising residents.
The formation of the ‘Amot Rangers’ was disclosed by the Ondo State Commander of Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, during the parade of six suspected criminals at the Corps’ Headquarters in Akure.
He emphasised that the suspects have been profiled and that appropriate actions are underway.
Adeleye highlighted that the control points will cover areas along the borders with Edo, Kogi, Kwara, and Ekiti states. He explained that in the past 72 hours, Amotekun operatives have conducted extensive patrols across four local government areas in Akoko, successfully flushing out miscreants.
He noted that the Ondo State government is committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property, even in the most remote forest areas.
“To bolster security, two existing control posts will be reinforced, and four new ones will be established, all manned by specially trained Amotekun rangers.”
These rangers will also enforce the State Livestock and Grazing Regulations and the Establishment of Ranch Law 2021, which mandates the Amotekun Corps to oversee peaceful relationships between farmers, herders, and forest inhabitants.
Regarding the arrested suspects, Adeleye identified James Amos and Moses Plung, aged 30 and 21, who were apprehended for robbery, attempted murder, and diesel theft. Boboye Mathew, 18, and his sibling, Boboye Lekan, were arrested for stealing and dismantling motorcycles.
Other suspects include Arabiu Mogaji, Dauda Alason, and Godwin Isaac, who were arrested for generator and phone theft. Additionally, Azubuike Okafor, 30, was caught breaking into homes, while Isiaka Audu was arrested for stealing motorcycles and yam tubers.
Akogun Adeleye mentioned that urban centres have been plagued by Okada (motorcycle) snatching, with a syndicate operating across the state. Members of this syndicate, known for killing Okada riders and stealing their motorcycles, were among those paraded.
He further noted the arrest of two individuals who attempted to kill security personnel guarding petroleum products. The weapons used in the attempted murder were also displayed during the parade.
Adeleye attributed the decline in criminal activities to the 24-hour patrols carried out weekly by the Ondo State Security Network Agency.
He expressed satisfaction with the stabilisation of law and order in the state, particularly in enforcing the anti-open grazing law and ensuring peaceful farmer-herder relations.
The Commander also commended the state’s labour unions for prioritising dialogue during recent protests and praised the student union for maintaining peace. He assured that disputes over land and chieftaincy matters are being addressed proactively by the government.
Regarding terrorism and kidnapping, Adeleye vowed that the Amotekun Corps would continue to work tirelessly to minimise these threats. He also reported that there were no incidents of militancy or human trafficking during the month under review.
Adeleye assured that with the deployment of Amotekun rangers in border areas, Ondo State remains safe for investors, commuters, and travellers. He highlighted the success of the control posts in Ijugbere Forest and Imoru Ijagba, which have significantly reduced kidnapping incidents.
Adeleye, however, warned criminals that Ondo State is no place for their activities, as the Amotekun Corps remains vigilant and resolute in its mission to protect the state’s residents.