The Ondo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps, has arrested a 56-year-old man, Iliasu, alongside his three sons over their alleged involvement in a kidnapping operation in Oba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of the state.
The State Commander of Amotekun, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed this while parading 28 suspects arrested for various offences at the corps’ headquarters in Akure.
According to Adeleye, the victim, identified as Oyebade Samuel, was abducted after his vehicle developed a fault along the Oba-Akoko Road.
He said the kidnappers initially demanded a N40 million ransom but later accepted N1.6 million from the victim’s family.
The commander explained that despite receiving the ransom, the suspects refused to release the victim and warned the family against involving security agencies.
The family subsequently reported the incident to Amotekun, prompting an intelligence-led operation.
Adeleye said operatives traced the suspects, who allegedly disguised themselves as cattle rearers while carrying out kidnapping activities.
During the rescue operation, the suspects reportedly attacked Amotekun personnel but were overpowered.
The victim was rescued with multiple machete and knife injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.
The commander added that more than 75 per cent of the ransom money was recovered, alongside alcoholic drinks, hard drugs, cigarettes and other items allegedly linked to the suspects.
The three sons arrested with the father were identified as Usman, 33, Wahab, 27, and Yakubu, 18.
Adeleye further revealed that one of the suspects, believed to be the gang leader, had been on the corps’ watchlist since 2024 over alleged involvement in several kidnapping incidents across the Ondo North Senatorial District.
He was said to have fled the state following previous security operations before returning to allegedly coordinate the latest abduction.
Speaking on his ordeal, the rescued victim said four armed men emerged from the bush after his vehicle broke down, assaulted him and dragged him into the forest, where he was held captive until Amotekun operatives rescued him.
Adeleye reiterated the corps’ position against the payment of ransom, noting that all recovered funds would be returned to the victim’s family.
He assured residents that the corps remains committed to combating criminal activities across the state, stressing that there is no safe haven for criminals in Ondo State.