Police, Army, NSCDC arrest 99 suspects in Ondo

The Police Command in Ondo State says a coordinated inter-agency raid on Sunday led to the arrest of 99 suspects involved in various criminal activities across the state. DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Command’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Akure. Jimoh stated that the joint effort involved the […]

The Police Command in Ondo State says a coordinated inter-agency raid on Sunday led to the arrest of 99 suspects involved in various criminal activities across the state.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the Command’s spokesperson, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Akure. Jimoh stated that the joint effort involved the Ondo State Police Command, the 32 Brigade Artillery of the Nigerian Army, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Other participating agencies included the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps.

“The intelligence-led operation targeted identified criminal hideouts, black spots, and flashpoints across several parts of the state known for criminal activities,” Jimoh said. “The coordinated operation resulted in the arrest of 99 suspects linked to offenses such as armed robbery, burglary, theft, cultism, and other related crimes.”

During the raid, several items suspected to have been used for criminal activities, as well as suspected stolen properties and other incriminating exhibits, were recovered. The spokesperson added that the arrested individuals are currently undergoing screening and profiling, and those found culpable will be charged to court.

The state Commissioner of Police (CP), Adebowale Lawal, commended the professionalism, synergy, and commitment displayed by all participating security agencies. According to Jimoh, the CP noted that such collaboration remains crucial in the fight against crime and criminality within the state.

“The CP further reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven policing and joint security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and maintaining law and order,” the statement continued.

Lawal warned criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities, stressing that Ondo State will not serve as a safe haven for criminals. He called on the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely, credible, and actionable information.

“Community cooperation remains vital in sustaining the prevailing peace and security in the state. The Command assures the public that no effort will be spared in ensuring that all perpetrators of crime are brought to justice,” Jimoh concluded. (NAN)