SUNTV Global Channel Report
The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has arrested 39 suspected terrorists who allegedly fled from Sokoto State and took refuge in forest reserves across Ondo State following intensified military operations during the Christmas period.
The suspects were part of 100 alleged criminals apprehended across the state and paraded on Tuesday by the State Commander of Amotekun, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, in Akure.
According to Adeleye, the 39 suspects claimed they escaped from northern Nigeria due to heightened military pressure and subsequently relocated to forest areas within Ondo State to evade security forces.
“A couple of days ago, 39 suspects were arrested together, claiming that due to the heat turned on them in the northern part of the country, they relocated into the forest,” Adeleye disclosed.
He explained that the suspects are currently undergoing thorough profiling, stressing that anyone found in possession of incriminating materials would face prosecution, while others may be repatriated after investigations.
“We are still profiling them. After that, those found with incriminating equipment and materials will surely be prosecuted,” he added.
The Amotekun commander warned that the Ondo State Government does not permit unauthorized occupation of forest reserves, noting that anyone seeking to reside in such areas must obtain official approval.
“For you to stay in our forest areas, you must obtain permits. The sudden influx of these elements raises serious concerns, which we are investigating,” Adeleye said.
He further revealed that enhanced collaboration among border patrol teams from Ondo, Ekiti, Osun and Ogun states has significantly strengthened security, leading to arrests beyond Ondo’s borders.
“The synergy between the border patrols of Ekiti/Ondo, Osun/Ondo and Ogun/Ondo has yielded tremendous results. Some suspects were arrested outside Ondo State and brought back for investigation,” he stated.
Providing a breakdown of the arrests, Adeleye said 61 out of the 100 suspects were paraded, with offences ranging from breach of law and order (50 suspects), anti-open grazing violations (2), kidnapping-related offences (6), and rape and gender-based violence (3). The suspects are aged between 18 and 45 years.
On the rape cases, Adeleye identified the suspects as Daniel Ojo (19), Usman (33) and Bejide (41), all arrested in the Isinkan area of Akure, the state capital.
The Amotekun boss commended Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for providing an enabling environment for the corps, while also praising other security agencies for their cooperation in tackling crime across the region.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and bring updates as investigations progress.
