Security operatives in Ondo State have stepped up operations to curb criminal activities, conducting an extensive bush-combing exercise across high-risk areas in Akure North Local Government Area.
The joint operation, carried out on Monday, involved personnel from the Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigerian Army.
It was gathered that operatives traversed dense forest paths on foot, motorcycles, and vehicles, covering zones from the back of HOB Estate through Ilado, Ilu-Abo, and Ala-Dada.
During the several-hour exercise, security agents reportedly dismantled and set ablaze suspected hideouts used by kidnappers and other criminal elements.
Two individuals suspected to be kidnappers were also intercepted during the operation.
Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, described the exercise as part of a sustained strategy by the joint task force to flush criminals out of forested areas.
Adeleye noted that local Amotekun operatives, leveraging their knowledge of the terrain, guided other agencies to known black spots, resulting in the successful dislodgement of suspected offenders.
“The operation involved a trek of about four to five hours through thick forest, highlighting the commitment of our security agencies to ensuring safety in the state,” he said.
“This is a deliberate and ongoing effort. The message is clear: there is no safe haven for criminals in Ondo State. We will continue to comb all identified black spots until criminal activities are completely eradicated.”
For security reasons, Adeleye declined to disclose the precise locations of the targeted black spots.
Residents have welcomed the initiative as Mr. Rotimi Adeyanju, a local farmer, praised the state government under Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for enhancing security, saying, “I appreciate what the governor is doing.
“We can now go to our farms safely. Seeing security operatives in these areas gives us confidence.”