Amotekun Arrests Four Suspected Kidnappers, Recovers Most of ₦40m Ransom

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, have arrested four suspected kidnappers and recovered more than 75 per cent of a ₦40 million ransom collected from the family of an abducted victim in Ondo State.

The suspects were apprehended during a rescue operation in Oba Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area.

The Ondo State Commander of Amotekun, Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed the development while parading 28 suspects arrested for various criminal offences across the state.

He said the victim’s family alerted the Corps after paying the ₦40 million ransom, alongside tramadol, energy drinks and cigarettes, but the kidnappers refused to release the captive.

According to Adeleye, intelligence gathering led operatives to a family allegedly involved in kidnapping activities while posing as cattle rearers.

The operation led to the recovery of more than 75 per cent of the ransom, as well as tramadol, alcoholic drinks, energy drinks, cigarettes and other items allegedly linked to the suspects.

The commander also revealed that the suspected gang leader had been on Amotekun’s watchlist since 2024 over alleged involvement in several kidnapping cases across the Ondo North Senatorial District.

The rescued victim, Oyebade Samuel, said he was abducted after his machine developed a mechanical fault along a road in Oba Akoko. He did not disclose how long he was held before being rescued.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing, while the suspects will be prosecuted at the conclusion of the investigation.