Victim dies as Amotekun hunts kidnappers in Ondo forest

One of the two victims abducted in Okeigbo, Ondo State, has died while being held captive. Meanwhile, security operatives have rescued five others in separate incidents across the state. The Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as the Amotekun Corps, announced this on Monday during a parade of 14 suspects in Akure. Daily Trust previously reported that gunmen abducted two farmers in Parubber Community, Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area, and demanded a N100 million ransom for their release.

Amotekun Commander Adetunji Adeleye stated that the Okeigbo incident occurred several days ago, leading to a swift rescue operation upon receiving a distress call. The Amotekun Corps worked alongside the Department of State Services (DSS) to track down the kidnappers and secure the victims. The command confirmed that the two kidnapped individuals were found deep within a reserve forest, but the woman was unconscious when the operatives arrived.

One of the suspects was captured in Oyo State, with authorities collaborating with other security agencies to apprehend and prosecute him. In another operation, suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate were arrested in Odigbo Local Government Area. Additionally, two individuals were apprehended for allegedly possessing firearms illegally.

Adeleye revealed that nine suspects were arrested for law and order breaches, while five were connected to kidnapping. The rescued victims were alerted by family members, allowing Amotekun Rangers stationed in the forest to respond promptly and secure their release. The Amotekun Commander assured the public of the state's commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property in Ondo.