The Ondo state police command has arrested five suspected kidnappers during a raid in the Amurin forest, along the Owo–Ifon axis of Ose local government area.
The suspects were apprehended in the early hours of Sunday during an intensified search for the killers of a police officer, James Ogunleye, who was recently ambushed and killed by gunmen who also made away with his rifle.
Police spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, who confirmed the arrest in a statement on Tuesday, said the operation was part of the command’s ongoing efforts to track down Ogunleye’s assailants and recover his service weapon.
“The command’s tactical teams have continued aggressive bush combing and intelligence-led patrols across identified flashpoints.
“The sustained operations yielded positive results when our men arrested five suspects; Friday Monday, Ashimi Wahab, James Odina, Ibrahim Idris, and Prince Areeh inside the Amurin forest around 3 a.m. on October 26,” Ayanlade said.
He added that a single-barrel gun loaded with a live cartridge was recovered from the suspects, who are currently in custody for further investigation.
Commissioner of police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism and determination, directing that the investigation be expanded to uncover other accomplices and recover the slain officer’s rifle.
“The Ondo state police command will leave no stone unturned in bringing violent criminals to justice and ensuring lasting peace across the state,” Lawal said.
Comments