Banditry: Ondo Govt. Fingers Locals, Ask Security Agencies To Go After Them

By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Government has attributed gale of kidnappings and banditry in the state in recent time to collaboration of some locals in the affected areas.

Within the last one month, a traditional ruler was hacked to death by suspected bandits, church members in Owo local government were kidnapped, while a couple returning home from place of work was also abducted.

Families of victims were forced to cough out huge sums of money before securing their release.

The state government on Tuesday expressed concern over the recent kidnapping incidents in the state saying it has been discovered that it was orchestrated by some locals within those parts of the state.

A statement by the commissioner of  information, Idowu Ajanaku, directed security agencies to crackdown on them.

“The government is aware that the unscrupulous elements want to use the criminal activities to portray Ondo State as unsafe. Such acts are unacceptable and will be met with firm and lawful action.

“The government has consequently directed all security agencies in the state to intensify surveillance and immediately clamp down on individuals or groups involved in these nefarious activities.

“Security operatives have been mandated to ensure that those found culpable are apprehended, thoroughly investigated, and brought to justice in accordance with the law.

“The government reiterates that significant investments have been made to strengthen the state’s security architecture.

“These include the provision of utility vehicles and other logistics support to security agencies, the construction of a state-of-the-art Crime Control Centre for the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), and the recent recruitment of 500 well-trained Amotekun personnel to boost intelligence gathering and rapid response operations across the state.

“Traditional rulers are hereby urged to remain vigilant and closely monitor activities within their domains.

“They are encouraged to promptly report any suspicious movements or gatherings to the appropriate security agencies. Community-based intelligence remains a critical component in the fight against crime.

“Residents are also advised not to remain silent in the face of suspicious activities. If you see something, say something.

“The protection of lives and property remains the foremost priority of the Ondo State Government, and no individual or group will be allowed to undermine the peace, security, and stability of our dear state.”