Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested two suspected kidnappers, Ridwan Salisu (45) and Umar Isyaku (19), found in possession of ₦3.6 million cash.
The duo was apprehended following intelligence-led operations, though they claimed the money was meant for their Point of Sale (PoS) business.
Kidnapping for ransom has been on the rise in Ondo State, particularly in Akure North Local Government Area.
Network of Kidnappers Uncovered
A victim, Olanrewaju Oyeleye, who previously paid a ₦25 million ransom, revealed that kidnappers operate with an extensive support network supplying them with essential provisions inside the forest.
Addressing journalists on the latest crackdown, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, disclosed that Salisu insisted the money found in his possession was for PoS operations.
More Arrests Linked to Kidnapping Syndicate
The police have also arrested two motorcyclists, identified as Lekan Temitope (a.k.a. Legelege) and Komolafe Sunday (a.k.a. Veego), who allegedly acted as spies and logistics providers for the kidnappers.
Komolafe reportedly admitted to supplying food to kidnapped victims and receiving payments based on the number of hostages held.
His confession led operatives to Akunu-Akoko, where two additional suspects, Umaru Abubakar Sanda and Yusuf Ahmadu, were apprehended.
According to police reports, Abubakar confessed to being responsible for guarding hostages in the forest after they were abducted.
Notorious Vandal Re-Arrested
In a separate operation, the police re-arrested a serial vandal, Samuel Friday, who had been jailed three times for vandalizing electrical installations.
Samuel was caught tampering with a transformer in the Ilu-Abo, Ogbese area of Ondo State.
“He confessed to have been vandalizing transformers since 2016 and admitted to selling stolen electrical cables to a receiver known as Alhaji Abubakar (a.k.a. Abu Shisha) and another buyer, Alhaji Sheu Sabo, in Akure.”
Police have launched efforts to track down these illegal buyers.
Government Steps Up Efforts Against Kidnapping
Commissioner Afolabi revealed that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has approved technical equipment to enhance the fight against kidnappings and other crimes in Ondo State.
Additionally, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has pledged to provide necessary logistics and resources to strengthen law enforcement efforts in the state.
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