Ondo State Police Rescue Kidnap Victim, Arrest 12 Suspected Criminals in Major Crackdown on Crime

 

Ondo State, Nigeria — May 17, 2025 – In a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity in Ondo State, the Ondo State Police Command has successfully rescued a kidnap victim and arrested no fewer than twelve suspected criminals involved in a range of serious offenses including kidnapping, armed robbery, stealing, and cultism.

This significant development was disclosed by the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, during a press briefing held at the police headquarters in Akure, the state capital, on the evening of Saturday, May 17, 2025. According to CP Afolabi, the arrests and rescue operation were the result of meticulous intelligence gathering and coordinated tactical operations by the state police command.

Victim Rescued, No Ransom Paid

The rescued victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, had been abducted on May 14, 2025, in the Ikare Mine area, located in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State. His kidnappers had demanded a ransom of ₦14 million for his release.

“In the early hours of today (Saturday), a combined tactical team of operatives from the Ondo State Police Command and local hunters based in Ikare carried out a successful operation that led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and the arrest of one of the suspects involved in the abduction,” said CP Afolabi.

The Commissioner added, “Acting on actionable intelligence regarding the movement of suspected kidnappers responsible for the abduction of one Ogunniyi Semiu on May 14, 2025, around Ikare Mine in Akoko North-East Local Government Area, the joint team strategically laid an ambush in a forest area near Supare Mine, believed to be a rendezvous point for the suspects who had demanded a ransom of ₦14 million.”

The strategic operation led to a fierce gun duel between the police and the suspects. During the exchange of gunfire, several suspects reportedly sustained gunshot injuries. One of the kidnappers, identified as Babuga Muhammed, a native of Iseyin, Oyo State, was captured during the encounter.

“Crucially, the victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, was rescued alive and unhurt. No ransom was paid,” CP Afolabi confirmed. This successful rescue without ransom payment is a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing and the dedication of the officers involved.

Suspects Arrested in Ongoing Operations

In addition to the kidnap rescue, the police also arrested eleven other suspects believed to be involved in various forms of organized crime across Ondo State. These suspects have been linked to activities including armed robbery, cultism, and theft, which have plagued communities across the region.

The arrested suspects were identified as follows:

• Babuga Muhammed

• Ibrahim Uma

• Paul Osanyinduro

• Abubakar Bamoh

• Olaoluwa Olootu

• Aliu Raymond

• Yahaya

• Hasminu Jibirimi

• Hammed Olabode

• Adegoke Olayemi

CP Afolabi explained that some of the suspects have confessed to their involvement in various criminal activities. Investigations are ongoing, and the police are making efforts to arrest other members of the criminal syndicates, particularly those who managed to escape during the gun battle with injuries.

One of the key highlights of the press conference was the assurance from the police boss to the citizens of Ondo State. He encouraged residents to remain vigilant, support law enforcement efforts, and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies.

“We urge residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies. Together, we can and will build a safer Ondo State,” CP Afolabi stated.

Injured Suspect Receiving Treatment

Regarding the apprehended kidnap suspect, Babuga Muhammed, the Commissioner noted that he sustained gunshot wounds during the shootout with police officers. He is currently receiving treatment at the State Specialist Hospital, under heavy police guard.

The CP also emphasized that the Ondo State Police Command is not resting until every individual involved in the crime is brought to justice. The command is using all available resources, including tracking technologies and community intelligence networks, to ensure the arrest of the fleeing suspects.

Ondo State Police Reaffirms Commitment to Security

Commissioner Wilfred Afolabi reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Ondo State Police Command to ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state. In his words:

"I want to assure the good people of Ondo State that the police command under my leadership will continue to act with professionalism, impartiality, and resolve in protecting lives and property.”

This assurance comes at a time when residents across Ondo State and other parts of Nigeria are calling for more decisive action against criminal elements who have terrorized communities and undermined public safety.

Community Policing and Local Support Key to Success

The successful rescue of Ogunniyi Semiu and the arrest of his abductors also highlight the importance of community policing and collaboration with local vigilante and hunter groups. The police acknowledged the instrumental role played by local hunters in Ikare, who were familiar with the terrain and helped guide the tactical units during the operation.

This strategy of combining local intelligence with formal law enforcement capabilities has increasingly proven effective in hard-to-reach areas, especially forests and rural terrains where kidnappers tend to establish hideouts.

Public Reaction and the Path Forward

The news of the successful operation has been met with widespread commendation from the public, especially on social media platforms. Citizens have praised the efforts of the Ondo State Police Command for its proactive approach and professionalism in handling the situation.

Security analysts have also urged other state commands across Nigeria to emulate Ondo State’s intelligence-led model. The use of actionable intelligence, quick response teams, and local partnerships is critical in tackling the rising cases of kidnapping and violent crimes across the nation.

For residents of Ondo State and stakeholders in Nigeria’s security architecture, this development signals hope and proves that with determination, commitment, and collaboration, the tide of insecurity can be turned.

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