Ondo govt orders security crackdown on kidnap syndicates, mobilises communities for vigilance
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Ondo State Government has directed security agencies to launch an aggressive crackdown on kidnapping syndicates operating across parts of the state, following fresh concerns over rising incidents linked to local collaborators.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, the government said investigations revealed that some of the recent abductions were orchestrated with the involvement of individuals within affected communities.
Describing the development as disturbing, the government warned that criminal elements attempting to paint the state as unsafe would be met with firm and lawful resistance.
It consequently mandated all security agencies to intensify surveillance and swiftly apprehend those involved in kidnapping and related crimes.
The directive emphasised that suspects must be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The government also highlighted ongoing efforts to reinforce the state’s security architecture, noting significant investments in logistics and infrastructure.
These include the provision of operational vehicles to security agencies, the establishment of a modern Crime Control Centre for the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as Amotekun Corps, and the recent recruitment of 500 personnel to enhance intelligence gathering and rapid response capacity.
As part of a broader strategy to curb insecurity, traditional rulers were urged to strengthen vigilance within their domains and promptly report suspicious activities to security authorities.
The government stressed that community-based intelligence remains a vital tool in combating crime.
Residents were similarly encouraged to cooperate with security agencies by speaking up against suspicious movements, reiterating the call: “If you see something, say something.”
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the government maintained that it would not allow any individual or group to undermine the peace, security, and stability of the state.
