…as Amotekun enhances surveillance

By Tola Gbadamosi & Bukola Olamona

Following reports circulating in the social media about a purported threat letter from suspected bandits warning of another attack on churches in Owo, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Mr Wilfred Afolabi, has ordered the immediate and heavy deployment of operational assets to all churches and mosques across the state, particularly on worship days.

This development is coming as a security summit is scheduled to hold today at the Prof. Abubakar Rasheed Auditorium of Achievers University, Owo.

The maiden security summit, themed “Securing Owo and Its Environs: Strategies for Community Safety and Resilience,” is expected to commence at 9 a.m.

The summit aims to create awareness and consciousness about community security, reduce crime rates, and improve trust and cooperation between law enforcement agents and the people

According to a statement signed by Mr. Olatunbosun Oladimeji, Publicity Secretary of the Owo Security Summit Committee, the event will feature distinguished guests, including the State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his Deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami. Justice Adesuyi Olateru-Olagbegi (retired) will chair the summit

It would be recalled that on June 5, 2022, terrorists sneaked into St. Francis’ Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State and attacked unsuspecting worshippers leaving no fewer than 41 people dead,while several worshippers were injured in the attack.

In addition, surveillance and patrol operations have been significantly intensified to prevent any potential attacks and to reassure the public of their safety.

This directive was contained in an official statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola.

The statement reads in part:

“The attention of the Ondo State Police Command has been drawn to reports circulating on some media platforms regarding an alleged letter purportedly written by a bandit involved in the tragic Owo church attack, threatening to strike again.

“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that while the source and authenticity of the said letter remains unverified, the report has necessitated a prompt and strategic response in the interest of public safety.”

“The Police Command urged media organizations and members of the public to desist from sharing unverified information or fake news that may cause undue tension or panic.

“Such actions are counterproductive and capable of undermining the security progress we have collectively achieved,” the statement added.

“Residents of Owo and the entire Ondo State are therefore advised to go about their lawful activities without fear or panic. The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, remain fully committed to protecting the lives and property of all citizens.”

The statement further encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or through the emergency lines provided by the Command.

In the same vein, the State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun , has reassured residents of Owo and its environs of their safety, even as the town prepares to host a crucial security summit.

The Commander of Amotekun, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed that the outfit and other security agencies in the state have been placed on red alert following the fresh threat allegedly issued by suspected bandits to launch another attack on Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owo, the same church where a deadly 2022 bombing claimed many lives.

Adeleye stated: “We are on red alert to ensure adequate security across Ondo State. Amotekun Rangers units are stationed in various strategic locations across the nooks and crannies to maintain peace and ensure the safety of all residents.”

He urged residents to go about their normal activities without fear, adding that the agency’s distress line — 08097999989 remains active for immediate response in the event of any emergency.