Amotekun Rescues Kidnap Victim, Arrests Father, Three Sons in Ondo

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, have rescued a kidnap victim and arrested a father alongside his three sons for allegedly operating a kidnapping syndicate in Oba-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area of the state.

The State Commander of the corps, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed the development while parading suspects arrested for various criminal offences in Akure. He said the victim was abducted while travelling to Oba-Akoko and that although the family paid a ransom, the kidnappers refused to release him and warned relatives against informing security agencies.

Adeleye explained that the family eventually reported the incident to Amotekun, prompting an intelligence-led operation that uncovered the alleged involvement of a father and his three sons, who reportedly disguised themselves as cattle rearers while carrying out kidnapping activities. He added that the suspects attacked Amotekun operatives during the rescue mission, but the officers overpowered them and successfully freed the victim. More than 75 per cent of the ransom was also recovered, alongside drugs, alcoholic drinks, cigarettes and other items allegedly linked to the operation.

According to the commander, one of the suspects had been on the agency's watchlist since 2024 over alleged involvement in a series of kidnapping incidents across Ondo North Senatorial District. He said the suspect had previously fled the state but recently returned before allegedly coordinating the latest abduction. The rescued victim, who sustained machete and knife injuries during captivity, is receiving medical treatment.

Adeleye reiterated that Amotekun does not encourage the payment of ransom to kidnappers and assured residents that the corps would continue working with other security agencies to rid Ondo State of criminal elements. He added that all recovered ransom money would be returned to the victim's family.