Ransom Collection: Three Killed, Two Arrested, Victim Set Free

By Ayodele Oni

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command and local hunters on Wednesday engaged some suspected kidnappers in gun fuel at a point they were to collect ransom.

The operation led to the rescue of a kidnapped victim, the neutralization of suspected kidnappers, the arrest of others, and the recovery of firearms.

Command’s spokesman, Olusola Ayanlade in a statement, explained that “On 20th August, 2025, at about 0800hrs, operatives of the Command attached to Ikare Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), in collaboration with local forest hunters, embarked on a discreet operation following the abduction of one Tijani Aremu ‘m’, aged 60 years.

“Investigation revealed that the kidnappers had demanded ransom in millions of naira from the victim’s family, with an agreed location fixed for the exchange.

“Acting in cooperation with Police operatives and forest hunters, the family paved the way for an ambush to be strategically laid at the designated point of exchange.

“When the suspected kidnappers arrived to collect the proceeds of their crime, they were engaged in a fierce gun duel with the operatives.

“In the process, one of the kidnappers was neutralized and a single-barrel rifle recovered, while several others escaped with bullet injuries.

“The combined team immediately intensified a combing operation in the adjoining forests, which led to the recovery of two additional lifeless bodies of suspected kidnappers, bringing the total number neutralized to three.

“Furthermore, two suspects, namely Yahaya Isa ‘m’ (20 years) and Ismail Ismail ‘m’, were arrested in connection with the kidnapping.

“Sustained pressure during the operation eventually culminated in the safe rescue of the victim, Mr. Tijani Aremu, who was found unharmed. He was promptly taken to Hospital, for medical examination and is set to be reunited with his family.

“The Command highly commends the forest hunters for their courage, vigilance, and selfless collaboration, which greatly complemented the effort of the Police and contributed to the eventual rescue of the victim.

“This operation is a clear testament to what can be achieved when security agencies and community stakeholders work hand in hand.”