The Ondo State Government has directed security agencies across the state to launch an intensified crackdown on kidnapping syndicates following a recent surge in abduction incidents.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the government expressed deep concern over the disturbing trend, noting that investigations have revealed the involvement of some local collaborators in orchestrating the crimes.
According to the statement, the criminal elements are allegedly attempting to portray the state as unsafe through coordinated acts of kidnapping. The government described such actions as unacceptable and vowed that they would be met with firm and lawful measures.
Security agencies have consequently been mandated to heighten surveillance operations and immediately clamp down on individuals or groups linked to the nefarious activities. Authorities were directed to ensure that all suspects are apprehended, thoroughly investigated, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The government reiterated that it has made significant investments to strengthen the state’s security architecture. These include the provision of operational vehicles and 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 trained personnel to boost intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities.
Traditional rulers were urged to remain vigilant and closely monitor activities within their domains, while residents were encouraged to promptly report any suspicious movements or gatherings to relevant authorities.
The government emphasized that community-based intelligence remains critical in combating crime, assuring residents that the protection of lives and property remains its foremost priority.
“No individual or group will be allowed to undermine the peace, security, and stability of our dear state,” the statement concluded.
