Ondo hunters strikes, captures suspected Fulani kidnappers in Owo forest as Yoruba group calls to enhance local security

May 18, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

In Owo on Friday night, local hunters has apprehended two suspected kidnappers believed to be part of a notorious gang that has been terrorizing communities in the region.

The suspects were captured on Friday, May 16, 2025, after the hunters stormed their hideout deep in the forest.

According to eyewitnesses, the hunters recovered several items from the suspects, including firearms, cutlasses, cans of beer, and energy drinks.

However, some of the suspects managed to escape during the raid, leaving the hunters to take custody of the two apprehended individuals.

The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the suspects’ activities.

The command is working to track down the escaped suspects and gather more information about the gang’s operations.

The capture of the suspected kidnappers has brought relief to the residents of Owo and surrounding communities, who have been living in fear of the gang’s activities.

The hunters’ bravery and vigilance have been commended by the community, and many are hoping that this development will mark the beginning of a safer and more secure environment.

Think Yoruba First, TYF, a Socio-Cultural organisation established for the restoration and preservation of Yoruba culture and tradition, has applauded the local hunters in Owo, Ondo State, for their bravery in capturing suspected kidnappers. In a statement, the group urged Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa and other South West Governors to take note of the crucial role local security agencies like Amotekun play in maintaining regional safety.

TYF President, Comrade Oladimeji Bolarinwa, said this in a statement made available to The Yoruba Times on Sunday by the group’s general secretary, Dr Bukola Adeniji, also emphasized the importance of arming and supporting local security agencies, citing their intimate knowledge of the terrain and their ability to respond swiftly to security threats.

“We commend the hunters for a job well done,” the statement read.

“Their bravery and quick thinking have brought relief to our communities. We remind Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa and other South West Governors that empowering local vigilantes and security groups is not just an option, but a necessity. As President Tinubu recently approved the establishment of forest guards, we believe it’s time to strengthen our local security architecture.”

“Our people are tired of living in fear. It’s time we take our security into our own hands, with the support of our governors,” the statement added.

Think Yoruba First’s call for greater support for local security agencies echoes a growing sentiment among residents in the South West, who are increasingly looking to community-led initiatives to address security challenges.

As the investigation continues, the police are urging anyone with information about the suspects or their activities to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.