Amotekun Cracks Down on Illegal Armed Migrants in Ondo State, Arrests 149 Suspects

 Amotekun Cracks Down on Illegal Armed Migrants in Ondo State, Arrests 149 Suspects

In a decisive move to combat escalating security threats, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, better known as Amotekun, has apprehended 149 individuals suspected of illegal activities in various local government areas. This bold operation underscores Amotekun’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of residents across the state.

Amotekun’s Sweeping Security Operation

The arrested individuals, who claimed to be hunters from different parts of the country, were intercepted while traveling into the state in trucks. A thorough inspection revealed concealed firearms, bags of Indian hemp, cutlasses, and other weapons hidden beneath their belongings. Many of these arrests were made in locations notorious for armed robbery and kidnapping.

Amotekun’s Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, cast doubt on the suspects’ claims, stating: “The question we are asking is: why are they hiding their guns? If they are genuine hunters, why not come out openly? It is implausible that someone would travel across multiple states to hunt in an unfamiliar forest without prior notification or registration.”

Enforcing Compliance with State Regulations

Ondo State laws mandate that hunters register with the government before accessing forest reserves. This ensures that local authorities, including traditional rulers, are aware of who is entering their domains. By failing to comply with this requirement, the arrested individuals raised serious security concerns.

While every Nigerian has the constitutional right to move freely within the country, transporting weapons unlawfully is a criminal offense. Amotekun has reiterated that anyone carrying firearms or other dangerous weapons must provide valid documentation and notify relevant authorities before entering restricted zones.

Tightening Security Amid Rising Insecurity

Amotekun’s latest operation is part of a broader security strategy to curb the influx of unauthorized individuals into the state’s forest reserves. Surveillance and patrols have been intensified in border areas, targeting criminal elements attempting to infiltrate Ondo State.

Commander Adeleye emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, urging local communities to report any suspicious movements or unidentified persons in their areas. He highlighted that community intelligence plays a crucial role in preventing security breaches and ensuring rapid response to potential threats.

Strengthening Community Vigilance and Regional Security

Security agencies alone cannot tackle crime effectively without active public participation. Amotekun is calling on traditional rulers, local government officials, and residents to collaborate in monitoring activities within their communities. By fostering a security-conscious culture, residents can help deter criminals from taking refuge in rural areas.

The Role of Amotekun in Southwest Security

Established in January 2020, Amotekun was created as a regional security outfit for the six southwestern states to tackle growing insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Since its inception, Amotekun has been instrumental in curbing crime by complementing federal security agencies and providing grassroots intelligence.

Amotekun’s operations have yielded significant results, leading to the arrest of several criminal syndicates, recovery of stolen property, and disruption of criminal networks. The recent crackdown is a testament to the agency’s resolve to maintain peace and order in Ondo State and beyond.

Amotekun’s proactive efforts in arresting and investigating suspected criminals reaffirm its commitment to securing Ondo State from external threats. By enforcing strict compliance with state regulations, collaborating with local communities, and intensifying patrol operations, the security outfit continues to be a formidable force against crime.

As insecurity evolves, sustained cooperation between security agencies and residents remains the key to safeguarding lives and properties. The message is clear: Ondo State is no safe haven for criminal elements, and Amotekun will stop at nothing to protect its people.