The Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has successfully rescued five individuals who were kidnapped in Ondo State without any ransom being paid, thereby preventing the loss of a total sum of N150 million to criminal elements.
Speaking during a press briefing held on Wednesday in Akure, the state capital, the Commander of the Ondo State Amotekun Corps, Mr. Adetunji Adeleye, revealed that the victims were rescued during two separate operations carried out on May 6 and May 10, 2025.
According to Adeleye, the successful rescue missions were made possible by a renewed directive from the state government mandating all security agencies, especially Amotekun operatives, to conduct extensive operations within the forests across the state. This directive has intensified patrol efforts and enabled more proactive responses to criminal activities.
He explained that four of the victims were abducted on May 10 along the Iromeh axis of the Lagos–Ore Expressway. The kidnappers, numbering four, had demanded a ransom of N100 million for their release. However, shortly after the incident occurred, a distress call was placed to the Amotekun emergency line. The corps promptly mobilized its personnel and launched a swift operation into the forest, which led to the safe rescue of the victims without any ransom payment.
The fifth victim was kidnapped earlier on May 6 along the Ikare–Owo Road. Despite sustaining machete wounds from the abductors, he was also rescued unharmed financially. His captors had initially demanded a ransom of N50 million. He is currently receiving medical attention at the corps’ health facility.
Commander Adeleye stressed that the operations were based on credible intelligence and reiterated the corps’ commitment to responding swiftly to any reported security threats. He assured the public that all information provided would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
He further stated that the Amotekun Corps has intensified its 24-hour patrols, while specially trained forest rangers have been deployed deep into the bush to ensure rapid intervention when necessary.
Adeleye concluded by affirming the Ondo State Government’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing its zero-tolerance stance on crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and related security threats.
