Police foil bomb plot in Ondo, arrest six

Residents of Akure, the Ondo State capital, may have averted a major security incident following a police operation that led to the arrest of six suspects over an alleged plot targeting key government facilities. The Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, told journalists on Thursday that the operation was carried out on April […]

Residents of Akure, the Ondo State capital, may have averted a major security incident following a police operation that led to the arrest of six suspects over an alleged plot targeting key government facilities.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, told journalists on Thursday that the operation was carried out on April 15, 2026, based on credible intelligence about a suspected criminal network operating across multiple states.

He said officers acted swiftly on the intelligence, moving to the identified location where the suspects were apprehended before any attack could be carried out.

A search of a residence in the Oke-Odu area of Akure reportedly uncovered items believed to be components of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), along with other materials.

Recovered items include 217 bottles, a bag of sugar, 17 mobile phones, two laptops, N187,000 in cash, motorcycles, and suspected charms.

The suspects were identified as Adekunle Prosper (56), Ojo Olumide (39), Tope Kolawole (40), Ahmed Salihu (40), Bolaji Adebowale (46), and Gbadebo Abidemi (43).

According to the police, preliminary findings suggest the group may have been assembling explosive devices intended for use at strategic locations. Officers also said a document outlining potential targets was recovered, indicating a possible coordinated plan.

Lawal urged landlords and property managers to remain vigilant and carry out proper background checks on tenants, noting that residential properties are sometimes used for unlawful activities.

In a separate operation, police in Ondo State also arrested 10 individuals suspected to be involved in cult-related activities during a raid in Ondo Town. Among those detained is a suspected leader, Oluwatosin Temitope, who had previously been declared wanted in connection with reported violent incidents.

Police said he is being investigated in connection with a shooting involving a victim known as “Primo” in March 2026, as well as another incident at a bar in 2025.

Items recovered from the group include a firearm, cutlasses, a battle axe, insignia, and charms. Authorities said the suspects are believed to be linked to confraternities such as Aiye, Eiye, and Alora.

The Commissioner commended officers for the operation, emphasising the importance of intelligence-led policing in addressing evolving security challenges. He assured residents of the Command’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property.

All suspects remain in custody and are expected to be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations. He also urged members of the public to stay alert and support law enforcement agencies with timely and useful information.