The Ondo State Security Network Agency has arrested no fewer than 164 suspects during a week-long security operation across the state, as part of intensified efforts to curb criminal activities.
The Corps Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed this on Friday while parading the suspects in Akure, describing the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against crime.
According to him, the suspects were apprehended for various offences, including suspected kidnapping, breach of public order, rape, human trafficking, and violation of the state’s anti-open grazing law.
Adeleye said the operation led to the arrest of individuals allegedly involved in armed robbery, abduction, murder, arson, and theft in different parts of the state, including Owo and Akure.
He added that security operatives also recovered several stolen items from the suspects, including motorcycles, generators, and metal materials.
The commander further revealed that some suspects were linked to organised criminal activities such as human trafficking and fraud, while others were arrested for burglary and possession of stolen property.
In a related development, Adeleye disclosed that 144 persons were intercepted while being transported in a trailer under suspicious circumstances.
He explained that the individuals, who claimed to be new arrivals from the northern part of the country, were profiled and subsequently escorted back to their states of origin as a preventive security measure.
Adeleye commended the Ondo State Government for its support, noting that joint operations involving security agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Services have significantly reduced crime in the state.
He assured residents of the corps’ commitment to protecting lives and property, urging members of the public to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies.
The Amotekun boss also disclosed that over 15,000 commercial motorcyclists had been registered across the state, adding that only accredited riders would be allowed to operate as part of efforts to enhance security and curb criminal infiltration.