The police command in Ondo says it has arrested a wanted kidnapper terrorising the Akoko axis, Abdullahi Lawal, in Ikare-Akoko, Akoko North East LGA.

Abayomi Jimoh, the command’s spokesperson, announced this in a statement on Tuesday, saying the suspect was the ringleader of the kidnapping gang.

Mr Jimoh said the arrest followed sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated operational strategies.

“Lawal of Aderoju Camp, Ugbe Akoko Town, was identified as the mastermind of a kidnapping incident involving one Aremu Tijani ‘M’ that occurred on August 18, 2025, at the victim’s bush farm in the Ikare-Akoko axis. It would be recalled that security operatives engaged the kidnappers in a tactical operation, which led to the neutralisation of three members, while four other suspects were arrested.

“However, the gang leader, Abdullahi Lawal, managed to escape from the scene at the time, despite sustaining gunshot injuries during the encounter with police operatives. Following his escape, the command immediately placed the suspect on an intelligence watchlist, while intensive surveillance and discreet investigations were launched to track his movements and possible hideouts.

“After months of sustained intelligence-led operations and coordinated efforts by security personnel, the suspect was successfully apprehended by police operatives in Ikare-Akoko. He has since made useful confessional statements and will be charged in court,” the spokesperson said.

Mr Jimoh, who reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for kidnapping and other violent crimes, assured residents that efforts were being intensified to dismantle all criminal networks operating within the state and its surrounding communities.

He also said police commissioner Adebowale Lawal commended the dedication, professionalism, and resilience of the operatives involved in the operation.

(NAN)