By MUFTAU OGUNYEMI

The Police Command in Ondo State says it has arrested four suspected kidnappers, as part of the syndicate linked to Ilu-Abo attack in Akure North Local Government Area of the state.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the command’s Spokesperson, made this known in a statement on Thursday in Akure.

Jimoh said the success recorded was due to sustained efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state

He explained that the arrest followed intensive intelligence-driven operations launched by the command after the violent incident of Jan. 25, 2026.

According to the spokesperson, during the incident, armed assailants attacked residents at Liberty Avenue, Ilu-Abo, shot a victim, abducted another, and caused injuries to two others.

He said the incident prompted an immediate operational response, including reinforced tactical deployments, enhanced intelligence gathering, and on-the-spot assessment by the Commissioner of Police (CP)

“On Thursday Jan. 29, acting on proactive and credible intelligence, the vigilant members of Ilu-Abo Community apprehended one Abenaguna Muhammad, male, found in possession of various criminal charms.

“The suspect was immediately handed over to police operatives for discreet investigation.

“During investigations, the suspect confessed to being a member of a kidnapping syndicate operating along the Ala/Ilu-Abo axis and actively involved in the recent violent attack and abduction recorded in that area.

“The suspect further disclosed that the syndicate was led by one Lanre, popularly known as “Lanre Tomato” and two other men namely Ojo and Pius.

“These suspects are currently in police custody, while investigation is ongoing to recover exhibits, unravel further criminal links, and ensure diligent prosecution in a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.

Jimoh also said the state CP, Adebowale Lawal, commended Ilu-Abo Community for their vigilance, courage, and timely cooperation with the command.

“The CP described their action as a practical demonstration of effective community partnership in crime prevention, which directly contributed to unmasking the perpetrators violent crimes along Ala/Ilu-Abo axis.

“Lawal reiterated the command’s commitment to community policing and urged residents to continue supporting security efforts through structured vigilante services, timely and credible information sharing, and close collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

“Inter-agency collaboration and cooperation between the command and other security agencies, including non-conventional outfits, remain a critical pillar in the fight against kidnapping and other organized crimes across the state,” he said. (NAN)