The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has rescued eight kidnapped victims, including a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and a teacher, without the payment of ransom.
The victims were freed during coordinated operations carried out by Amotekun operatives in different parts of the state following intelligence reports on the activities of kidnappers operating within forested areas.
Among those rescued was Mr. Fagbonmire Durojaiye, an RCCG pastor and teacher whose abduction had generated anxiety among residents and members of his church. Others rescued include Muhammad, abducted in Ogbese; Moses Keke; Sefanu, Kabiru and Saradin, kidnapped at Loro Village; as well as Ijojo and Emeka Ngo.
Addressing journalists, the State Commander of Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, said the victims were rescued through intelligence-driven operations that led operatives to the kidnappers’ hideout.
According to him, some of the victims’ abductors had demanded N30 million ransom, but security operatives secured their release without any payment.
Adeleye explained that the operatives engaged the kidnappers in a gun battle after tracing them to a forest location, forcing the criminals to flee and abandon their captives.
He noted that the successful rescue operation came barely 48 hours after the corps paraded 46 suspected kidnappers arrested across the state.
“We assured the people of Ondo State that our operatives would return to the forests after the parade of suspected kidnappers, and we fulfilled that promise. Our men went back into the forests and rescued eight victims from their abductors,” he said.
The commander commended residents for providing timely information that aided the operation and appreciated the Ondo State Government for supporting the corps’ security efforts.
“The operations carried out in the last seven days within the forests around Akure North and adjoining communities yielded positive results. We appreciate the cooperation of residents and the support of government,” he added.
Reiterating the corps’ stance against ransom payment, Adeleye said: “Not a kobo was paid. Through intelligence gathering, technology and strategic deployment of personnel, we located the kidnappers deep inside the forest and secured the release of all the victims unharmed.”
Also speaking, the Olu of Ilado, Oba Ifedayo Ademira, praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Amotekun Corps for the successful rescue mission.
The monarch said the support provided by the state government had enhanced the operational capacity of the security outfit, enabling it to respond swiftly to distress situations.
He also lauded the Amotekun commander and his men for their commitment and professionalism, noting that their efforts brought relief to families of the victims.
The rescued victims have since reunited with their families, while security agencies have intensified efforts to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
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