Ondo: Police, local hunters kill 3 suspected kidnappers in gun battle

Security operatives in Ondo State have foiled a kidnapping attempt in Ikare Akoko, Akoko North-East Local Government Area, killing three suspected kidnappers during a fierce gun battle.

The incident occurred after the abduction of a 60-year-old man, identified as Tijani Aremu, whose captors reportedly demanded a ransom running into millions of naira.

According to reports, the suspects had arranged to collect the ransom at a designated location. However, police operatives, working in collaboration with local hunters, mounted an ambush for the criminals.

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On arrival, the kidnappers engaged the security team in a shootout. The gun battle ended with the death of three suspects, while efforts to ensure the safety of the victim continued.

“When the suspected kidnappers arrived to collect the proceeds of their crime, they were engaged in a fierce gun duel with the operatives. In the process, one of the kidnappers was neutralised and a single-barrel rifle recovered, while several others escaped with bullet injuries,” Police Public Relations Officer, Olayinka Ayanlade, said while confirming the incident on Wednesday.

“The combined team immediately intensified a combing operation in the adjoining forests, which led to the recovery of two additional lifeless bodies of suspected kidnappers, bringing the total number neutralised to three.

“Furthermore, two suspects, namely Yahaya Isa ‘m’ (20 years) and Ismail Ismail ‘m’, were arrested in connection with the kidnapping. Sustained pressure during the operation eventually culminated in the safe rescue of the victim, Tijani Aremu, who was found unharmed.

“He was promptly taken to Hospital, for medical examination and is set to be reunited with his family.”

Mr Ayanlade noted the people-centered style of policing of the force, which emphasises community engagement, inter-agency cooperation, and partnership with non-state actors. He added that these provided the strategic direction that made the operation possible.

He further commended the forest hunters for their courage, vigilance, and selfless collaboration, which greatly complemented the effort of the police and contributed to the eventual rescue of the victim.

“This operation is a clear testament to what can be achieved when security agencies and community stakeholders work hand in hand,” he said.

The command has in the recent past apprehended some criminals in the state, especially kidnappers following the upsurge of kidnapping cases.

Some persons were arrested for abducting a lecturer with the Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko.

Residents are however concerned about ensuring the prosecution of the suspects to forestall the return of the criminals to their trade and putting the society at further risk.