The Ondo State Police Command has arrested 208 suspects for various offences and recovered 25 firearms during a major crackdown on crime across the state over the past two months.
In a statement issued in Akure on Wednesday, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, described the arrests as part of the force’s latest operational achievements.
According to him, the offences ranged from kidnapping, murder, rape, armed robbery, and cultism to car and motorcycle theft, as well as fraudulent conversion of properties.
“Out of these, 99 suspects have been arraigned in court, while no fewer than 35 convictions have already been secured, reflecting the command’s sustained commitment to diligent investigation and prosecution,” Ayanlade said.
The police spokesperson disclosed that the killers of two Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) students were arrested in record time.
“It is noteworthy that in less than 72 hours, the command successfully arrested all individuals involved in the killing of two students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA),” he explained.
He continued: “Similarly, in less than five days, the command apprehended a commercial motorcycle operator who acted as an informant for kidnappers and his gang in the case involving the abduction of an AAUA staff member. All those linked to this crime have since been arrested and are undergoing prosecution.”
Ayanlade further revealed that the command had recovered 25 firearms, including prohibited rifles, locally fabricated cut-to-size pistols, and a Beretta pistol. Twelve stolen vehicles were also recovered from criminal syndicates within the same period.
While acknowledging the support of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the command credited residents with playing a crucial role in the successes achieved.
“It is important to state that security is a shared responsibility. The command therefore calls on residents to remain vigilant, continue to provide actionable intelligence, and resist any temptation to aid or collaborate with criminal elements,” Ayanlade said.
