Amotekun raises concerns over influx of foreigners in Ondo forests

The Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, has expressed concern over an increasing number of foreigners entering the state's forests and cities under various pretenses. Commanding Officer Akogun Adetunji Adeleye highlighted this issue during a recent parade of suspects in Akure. He emphasized the unusual manner in which these individuals move through the state, warning that this could potentially lead to criminal activities.

In a recent operation, the corps arrested 53 individuals, including 21 undocumented foreigners who were allegedly residing in two apartments in Owo Local Government Area. These suspects were charged with various crimes, such as kidnapping, murder, burglary, and cultism. Adeleye revealed that the 21 foreigners were identified by members of the Fulani community in the state, who claimed these individuals had entered Nigeria from neighboring West African countries to find employment and perform phone repairs.

However, the suspects were unable to provide proper documentation proving their legitimate stay in the country. The command has turned over the 21 foreigners to the relevant authorities for further investigation. Additionally, the corps uncovered a self-kidnapping syndicate involving four suspects who allegedly used social media to solicit money from victims.

The investigation led to the arrest of two of these individuals, and they were found to have coordinated with a self-kidnapped victim, who turned out to be an accomplice. Adeleye also mentioned that seven other suspects were arrested for kidnapping activities, with a military uniform recovered from one of the suspects. Two kidnapped boys were rescued, and one victim endured machete injuries during an attack but was taken for medical treatment.