The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a notorious kidnapper, Abdullahi Lawal, who had been terrorising the Akoko axis in Ikare-Akoko, Akoko North East Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Tuesday in Akure, describing Lawal as the ringleader of a kidnapping gang.
According to Jimoh, the arrest came after sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated police operations.
“Lawal of Aderoju Camp, Ugbe Akoko Town, was identified as the mastermind behind the kidnapping of one Aremu Tijani ‘M’ on August 18, 2025, at the victim’s bush farm in the Ikare-Akoko axis,” the statement said.
He recalled that security operatives had previously engaged the gang in a tactical operation that resulted in the neutralisation of three members and the arrest of four others. Lawal, however, had escaped the scene despite sustaining gunshot injuries during the encounter.
“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,” Jimoh added.
The police say Lawal’s arrest marks a significant step in curbing kidnapping activities in the region and reassures residents that security forces remain vigilant against criminal elements.
This operation underscores the importance of intelligence-led policing and coordinated strategies in tackling violent crimes in the state.
