Police dismantle 10-man kidnapping ring, recover ransom in Akure
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested 10 suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate and recovered ransom money in Akure, following a coordinated intelligence-led operation.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed in a statement on Tuesday that the arrests were made on Monday by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Section after receiving credible and actionable intelligence.
According to Jimoh, the operatives swiftly mobilised to strategic locations along Ondo Road, where the intelligence-driven operation led to the apprehension of the suspects, all of whom are male.
The suspects were identified as Muritala Muhammed (22), Mustapha Adamu (20), Usman Ibrahim (25), Amisu Aruna (28), Asiru Abdulasis (20), Abduliu Sanni (22), Ibrahim Suraju (20), Noah Isiaku (20), Abdullahi Suraju (20) and Arabi Hamet (18).
During the operation, police recovered the gang’s operational motorcycle and ransom money. Part of the recovered cash, Jimoh noted, included burnt currency notes, which are being documented as exhibits in the ongoing investigation.
“The suspects have made useful confessional statements, detailing the individual roles each played within the syndicate. Relevant exhibits recovered are currently being processed for comprehensive investigation and further necessary action,” he said.
He added that the command is intensifying efforts to unravel the full scope of the syndicate’s activities and track down other accomplices who may still be at large.
Jimoh also conveyed the assurance of the Commissioner of Police, who reaffirmed the command’s commitment to eliminating kidnapping and other violent crimes in Ondo State.
“The CP urges members of the public to continue to support the police with timely and credible information, as community partnership remains vital in the fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes.
“The command remains resolute in ensuring the safety and security of lives and property and will not relent in bringing perpetrators of crime to justice,” the statement added.
