February 17, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
Amotekun Corps has intercepted 114 suspected invaders being transported to the forest areas of the Southwest with weapons.
This development comes amidst growing concerns over kidnapping and armed robbery in Ondo State, particularly in farm settlements.
According to Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, the state Commander of Amotekun, the suspects were found loitering in the state’s forests without a clear purpose, prompting their arrest.
“In line with the directive of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, all persons found in the deep forests without a legitimate purpose are to be evacuated and sent back to their places of origin,” Adeleye stated.
The intercepted individuals were being transported in two trucks and were scheduled to be dispersed across the forest belt.
However, upon profiling, it was discovered that only three individuals knew their actual destination, while the rest had no idea where they were being taken. “They were simply instructed by their masters to enter the forest and wait for further orders,” Adeleye revealed.
Adeleye emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “We cannot afford to be complacent. If you have no justifiable reason to be in our forests, then what exactly are you doing there?”
He urged residents to report suspicious individuals and movements through the Amotekun helpline.
The state government ensured the safe return of the apprehended individuals, transporting them back to their respective states using the same trucks that brought them.
The Amotekun Corps collaborated with leaders of the Hausa-Fulani community to facilitate their departure.
Mallam Bala Umaru, a leader of the Hausa community in Ondo, commended the state Government and Amotekun for prioritizing security while ensuring a peaceful resolution.
