The Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun Corps, has rescued five individuals from the hands of kidnappers in Ondo State, successfully preventing the payment of a ransom totaling N150 million. This was confirmed by the State Commander of Amotekun, Mr. Adetunji Adeleye, during a press briefing in Akure on Wednesday.
Mr. Adeleye noted that the victims were rescued during two separate operations carried out on May 6 and May 10. He revealed that the state’s recent directive to security agencies—particularly Amotekun—to enter the forests more aggressively has started yielding results.
According to the commander, four of the kidnapped individuals were taken on May 10 along the Iromeh axis of the Lagos-Ore Expressway. The kidnappers, he said, demanded N100 million for their release. “Within few minutes of the occurrence, our distress line was called and we mobilised men to enter the forest,” he stated.
The fifth person was kidnapped earlier, on May 6, along the Ikare-Owo Road. His abductors reportedly demanded N50 million. Despite being injured with machetes, the victim was rescued alive without any ransom being paid. He is currently receiving medical treatment under the care of the Corps.
Adeleye noted that the success of these operations came through credible intelligence and swift action. He assured the public that Amotekun would continue to treat every piece of information with utmost confidentiality and urgency.
“Our officers and men are now on round-the-clock patrols,” he said. “We also have rangers stationed in the forests to ensure rapid response to any report of criminal activity.”
He further noted that the Ondo State Government remains committed to protecting the lives and property of its citizens and will not tolerate any form of criminal behavior, including kidnapping and armed robbery.
“We are focused on making Ondo State a no-go area for criminals,” Adeleye added.
