In response to the rising cases of kidnapping, particularly in farm settlements across Ondo State, operatives of the Amotekun Corps have intercepted 114 unidentified individuals found loitering in the state’s forests without a clear purpose.
As reported by SUNSHINETRUTH, the suspects were believed to have criminal intent, prompting their arrest by the state’s security outfit.
The state Commander of Amotekun, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the development, stating that in recent weeks, security operatives had been confronting a wave of unknown individuals infiltrating the forests.
“In line with the directive of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, all persons found in the deep forests without a legitimate purpose are to be evacuated and sent back to their places of origin,” Adeleye stated.
According to him, the intercepted individuals were being transported in two trucks and were scheduled to be dispersed across the forest belt, starting from the Ore-End axis, including Ofosu and surrounding areas.
“After profiling them, we discovered that only three individuals among them knew their actual destination, while the rest had no idea where they were being taken,” he revealed.
“They were simply instructed by their masters to enter the forest and wait for further orders. Given the security concerns in the state, the Governor has ordered their immediate repatriation. While freedom of movement is a constitutional right, it must have a legitimate purpose,” he added.
Adeleye emphasized that the state had been battling kidnappers and armed robbers, making it imperative to prevent any activities that could worsen the situation.
“We cannot afford to be complacent. If you have no justifiable reason to be in our forests, then what exactly are you doing there? Residents must remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals. Ondo State will not serve as a safe haven for criminals.”
The Amotekun boss urged the public to report suspicious movements through the security outfit’s helpline (080799999989), assuring that surveillance had been heightened across the forests.
To ensure the safe return of those apprehended, the state government directed that they be transported back to their respective states using the same trucks that brought them. Officers of the Amotekun Corps, in collaboration with leaders of the Hausa-Fulani community, facilitated their departure.
Mallam Bala Umaru, a leader of the Hausa community in Ondo, commended the state government and the Amotekun Corps for prioritizing security while ensuring a peaceful resolution.
“I appreciate Mr. Governor for his proactive approach in keeping Ondo State safe and for ensuring that these individuals are returned without harm,” he said.
The arrested individuals have since been escorted out of the state as part of ongoing efforts to maintain security and curb criminal activities.
