The Amotekun corps in Ondo state, a couple of days ago, arrested 39 Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) linked terrorists who fled Sokoto state after the United States (US) airstrikes.
The security outfit’s commander, Adetunji Adeleye, made this revelation on Tuesday in Akure while parading 61 suspects arrested during the ember month patrol operations across the state.
Adeleye explained that the 39 individuals, aged between 18 and 45, claimed under questioning that they escaped the Sokoto region after airstrikes targeted militant positions in the area.
“A couple of days ago, 39 suspects were arrested, all together, claiming that as a result of the heat turned on them in the northern part of the country, they are relocating to the forest.
“We are still profiling them, and after the profiling, we may have to send them back, but those found with incriminating equipment and materials will surely be prosecuted.
“The government has made its position known: for you to stay in our forest areas, you must obtain permits.
“So, the sudden influx of this element poses a lot of questions that we are still working on,” he said.
He disclosed that Amotekun has ramped up surveillance and strengthened partnerships with other security agencies, particularly along border areas connecting Ondo with Ekiti, Osun, Ogun, Edo, and Kwara states.
Of the 61 suspects displayed, 50 were apprehended for various criminal offenses, two for violations of anti-open grazing laws, six for kidnapping-related crimes, and three for gender-based violence, including rape.
Adeleye announced that while the ember month patrol concludes on Tuesday, security vigilance would remain heightened as phase two of the operation launches on 1st January, 2026.
Adeleye revealed that the corps has deployed rangers to forest reserves and maintains round-the-clock surveillance across the state.
He credited the wave of arrests to the dedication and coordinated strategy of the corps personnel working to eliminate criminal elements from Ondo state.
Adeleye praised the governor of Ondo state, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for creating a conducive environment for security operations through consistent support for security agencies.
He also commended collaboration from the Nigeria police force, Nigeria security and civil defence corps, Nigerian army, department of state services, vigilante groups, and residents for their cooperation in maintaining law and order.
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