By our Reporter
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested five suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate allegedly operating within Ore and surrounding communities in Ondo State.
The command said the breakthrough was achieved through its Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad following an intelligence-driven operation.
According to the police, the investigation began after a report was lodged on May 12, 2026, by one Andrew Yohana of Jerry Sawmill Area, Ore, over the abduction of his two sons while on their way to school.
The victims, identified as 10-year-old Jehu and five-year-old Yohana, were reportedly kidnapped by unknown persons and taken to an undisclosed location.
The police said detectives immediately launched an intensive investigation involving technical intelligence, tracking analysis and coordinated surveillance operations, which eventually led to the identification and arrest of some members of the syndicate.
The command disclosed that two suspects, Taofeek Lukman, 23, and Blessing Saturday, 27, were arrested around the Alaba Area of Ore.
During the operation, detectives recovered ₦251,000 suspected to be part of the ransom allegedly collected from the victims’ family before the children were released.
Police operatives also recovered an unregistered lady motorcycle believed to have been used during the kidnapping operation from another hideout linked to one of the suspects.
Further investigations led to the identification of additional suspects linked to the syndicate, namely Peter Moses, 25, Sunday Isaac, 23, and Sanusi Dan Asabe, 37.
The police said efforts were ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang and recover more exhibits connected to the crime.
According to the command, the arrested suspects have already made confessional statements detailing their alleged roles in the abduction and would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
The Commissioner of Police, Felix Ohagwu, commended the operatives for their professionalism and intelligence-led approach, which led to the success of the operation.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
Ohagwu also praised the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for his support, strategic leadership and commitment to intelligence-led policing nationwide.
The commissioner assured residents that the command remained resolute in protecting lives and property and warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities or face the full weight of the law.
He further urged members of the public to continue supporting the police with timely and credible information capable of aiding ongoing security operations across the state.
