By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

The Osun Amotekun Corps has arrested a middle-aged man alleged to have specialised in stealing electric cables.

He was reportedly nabbed in the Ila-Orangun area of the state by operatives of Amotekun, who acted on a tip-off.

It was learnt that on Monday, April 7, 2025, operatives of the Amotekun Corps in the Ila-Orangun Command apprehended one Afeez Adebayo, a 25-year-old ex-convict and indigene of Iragbiji, for stealing electricity wire valued at approximately N1.3 million.

The arrest followed a prompt response to a distress call made by concerned residents of the area who witnessed suspicious activities involving the suspect and his accomplices.

According to the Corps Commander, Dr. Adekunle Omoyele, the prompt action of the operatives led to the successful capture of the suspect while he was attempting to flee the scene.

Reports stated that the suspect was not only involved in the theft but also had a history of criminal behaviour, having previously served a prison term of one year and eight months for the sale of hard drugs.

During interrogation, Adebayo confessed to the crime, admitting that he carried out the act in the company of a friend who managed to escape arrest upon sighting Amotekun operatives.

The Corps Commander reiterated the importance of community cooperation, noting that the timely information provided by residents played a crucial role in apprehending the suspect.

Omoyele further emphasised that the Osun Amotekun Corps remains resolute in its mission to rid the state of criminal elements and will continue to pursue and prosecute those who threaten the peace and security of the citizenry.

Following due legal process, on Friday, April 11, 2025, Afeez Adebayo was arraigned before Magistrate A.A. Adeyeba at Magistrate Court 1 in Osogbo.

Represented by Oyedele F. Akintayo from the Office of the Attorney General of Osun State, the prosecutor filed a two-count charge against the defendant. Upon arraignment, the accused pleaded guilty to both counts.

The court thereafter sentenced Adebayo to six (6) months’ imprisonment on the first count and one (1) year imprisonment on the second count, with both sentences to run concurrently.

This conviction serves as a stern warning and deterrent to others who may consider engaging in criminal activities. The Osun Amotekun Corps remains steadfast in its dedication to building a safer Osun State through vigilance, swift response, and the enforcement of law and order.