By Ademola Adekusibe
30th December 2025
No fewer than 39 suspected terrorists have been arrested in Ondo State following intelligence-led operations by the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun.
Security sources said the suspects were apprehended while allegedly attempting to establish a camp in the Elegbeka Forest area of Ose Local Government Area. The arrests followed reports that armed elements were fleeing intensified military pressure in the North after recent joint United States–Nigeria counterterrorism operations in Sokoto.
The Amotekun Corps Commandant in Ondo State, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the arrests while parading 61 suspects at the corps headquarters in Akure. According to him, the 39 individuals claimed they relocated from Sokoto after security operations intensified during the Christmas period.
Adeleye disclosed that the suspects, aged between 18 and 45, were found hiding deep in the forest, with two vehicles parked at a distance. He said their sudden presence in a known security hotspot raised serious concerns.
“The major issue is why they were found in that black spot in the forest. They claimed the heat was turned on them in the North and that they were relocating,” Adeleye said, adding that profiling of the suspects was ongoing.
He noted that some of those arrested may be released after profiling, but individuals found with incriminating materials would be prosecuted in accordance with the law. Adeleye also reiterated that anyone seeking to stay in forest areas must obtain valid permits, warning that the influx of armed elements posed a significant security risk.
The commandant further revealed that about 100 suspects were arrested across the state’s 18 local government areas, with 61 paraded. Among them were 50 suspects arrested for breaches of law and order, two for violations of anti-open grazing laws, six for kidnapping-related offences, and three for rape and gender-based violence.
Specific arrests were also recorded in areas including Ofosu-Odigbo, Isua Akoko, Akure North, Oba Akoko, Oba Ile, and Isinkan, involving offences ranging from kidnapping and armed robbery to rape and assault on security personnel.
Security agencies say investigations are ongoing as efforts continue to prevent the spread of terrorist and criminal networks into the South-West region.
