The Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) announced the arrest of 32 suspected criminals, including individuals linked to kidnapping, theft, attempted murder and anti-grazing offences, following intensified surveillance and intelligence-driven operations across Ondo State. The arrests were confirmed at the Amotekun headquarters in Akure on Sunday, January 18, 2026 by the Corps Commander, Adetunji Adeleye.
Amotekun’s actions form part of broader efforts to improve public safety and curb criminal activities in the state. The operations were conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and targeted multiple localities where suspected crimes were reported.
The arrests come amid ongoing concerns about security in parts of the South-West, where kidnapping and theft have posed risks to residents and commercial activities. Amotekun, established as a state security network to support conventional law enforcement, has increasingly emphasised intelligence-led approaches to pre-empt and disrupt criminal networks.
Commander Adeleye explained that the suspect group included individuals apprehended for a range of offences that breach public order and safety. Of those detained, 12 were arrested for breaches of public law and order, three for anti-grazing and farmer-herder clash violations, and 17 for crimes linked to kidnapping.
Adeleye highlighted several specific cases among the detained. In Idoani, three men — Ibrahim (40), Yunusa (30) and Abdukadri (25) — were arrested for allegedly attempting to kill their employer and for destroying livestock. In Oba Akoko, where several kidnapping incidents had been reported, operatives, acting on intelligence, laid an ambush and apprehended two suspects, Pius (23) and John (35), at a suspected ransom exchange point.
Additional suspects — Elura, Alilu, Adamu and Kamal (aged between 24 and 29) — were arrested in Ile-Oluji and Ondo town for various criminal activities. In Akin Camp, Odigbo Local Government Area, operatives arrested Mohamed Abubakar, Abdulahi and Yakubu (aged 22 to 35), along with Abba Aliu (29).
Other arrests included three persons in possession of unexplained items in Agbogbo, Akure, four suspects at an Akure garage for conspiracy and breach of public peace, and others linked to conspiracy, stealing and anti-grazing offences in Elegbeka Forest Reserve and Ifon.
The coordinated operations reflect an escalation in Amotekun’s use of surveillance and community intelligence to tackle crime. State security stakeholders have reiterated the importance of public cooperation and timely reporting of suspicious activities to enhance effectiveness.
The Ondo Amotekun Corps emphasised its commitment to sustaining peace and further reducing criminal activity, reinforcing its role in supporting wider law enforcement efforts across the state.
Amotekun’s statement noted that efforts are ongoing to apprehend remaining collaborators and urged residents to continue providing information to support security operations. The corps affirmed that Ondo State remains focused on maintaining public safety and the rule of law.
