The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has arrested 39 suspected bandits allegedly fleeing from the northern part of the country, just as it apprehended dozens of other criminal suspects across the state.
The suspects were picked up in the Elegbeka forest axis of Ose Local Government Area, following what the corps described as intensified security pressure in parts of northern Nigeria.
The arrests came amid heightened surveillance during the festive period.
State Commander of Amotekun, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed this on Tuesday in Akure while parading more than 100 suspects arrested in different locations across the state.
Adeleye said the 39 suspects claimed they were relocating into the forest due to security operations in the North.
He added that they were currently undergoing profiling to determine the next line of action.
According to him, those found without incriminating items may be repatriated to their states of origin, while others found in possession of weapons or other suspicious materials would be prosecuted.
He explained that the Elegbeka axis had long been identified as a security flashpoint, prompting the establishment of a permanent Amotekun control post in the forest area.
The commander stressed that anyone intending to stay within forest reserves in the state must obtain official clearance from the government, warning that the sudden influx of unfamiliar persons into such areas raised serious security concerns.
Across the 18 local government areas of the state, Adeleye said about 100 suspects were arrested, out of which 61 were paraded before journalists.
He said the offences ranged from kidnapping, armed robbery and car snatching to violations of the anti-open grazing law, rape and assault.
He noted that the arrests included suspects linked to kidnapping operations in the Ofosu and Odigbo areas, as well as others apprehended in Isua Akoko, Akure North and surrounding communities for various criminal activities.
Adeleye described the operation as part of a coordinated effort to rid Ondo State of criminal elements, commending Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for providing the needed support and enabling environment for the corps to function effectively.
He also lauded other security agencies, including the police, military, civil defence, DSS, vigilantes and members of the public, for their collaboration and intelligence support.
The Amotekun boss assured residents that the corps would sustain its crackdown on criminal activities and would not allow the state’s forests and communities to become safe havens for criminals.