Police Bust Kidnap Syndicate in Ondo; Two Suspects Nabbed, Assets Recovered

The Ondo State Police Command has announced the arrest of two suspected kidnappers and the recovery of motorcycles allegedly used in carrying out criminal activities within the state.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday in Akure by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, who said the arrests underscore the police’s resolve to safeguard lives and property.

According to Jimoh, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit apprehended the suspects on February 11, 2026, following credible tracking analysis and technical intelligence.

“The operation led to the arrest of Abubakar Sindiku, 25, and Oliver Okoh, 35, at Sabo Sango, Ado Road, and Ilado Community respectively,” he said.

He explained that the suspects were arrested in connection with an ongoing kidnapping investigation in the state. Their statements have been recorded, and they are currently providing useful information to investigators.

Preliminary findings, he added, suggest that the duo are members of a kidnapping syndicate. They allegedly used their motorcycles to conduct surveillance and identify potential targets, while also providing logistics support such as food supplies and other operational materials to the gang.

Police said the motorcycles and other items believed to have been used in facilitating the crimes were recovered, adding that efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the syndicate and bring them to justice.

The Commissioner of Police in the state also reassured residents of the command’s determination to strengthen security across Ondo, vowing that those involved in criminal acts would be apprehended.

Jimoh urged members of the public to remain alert and continue sharing timely and credible information with security agencies.

In a related incident, residents of Eleyewo Community in Akure North Local Government Area staged a protest on Saturday following the abduction of a couple by gunmen. The attackers reportedly kidnapped Jamiu Olawale and his wife, shot another individual who managed to escape, and fired sporadically, forcing several residents to flee.

During the protest, demonstrators blocked the Akure-Owo Expressway while chanting solidarity songs.

The incident occurred just days after the killing of the traditional ruler of Agamo Community in the same local government area, Oba Kehinde Falodun, who was reportedly attacked by armed men.