By Muftau Ogunyemi

The Police Command in Ondo State says it has arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate in connection with the kidnap of a man, Abubakar Abdullahi, at Molege, via Owo, Ondo State.

DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the command’s Spokesperson, who said this in a statement on Sunday in Akure, explained that one of the suspects was arrested in Ibadan, Oyo State, while the other was arrested in Owo, Ondo State.

Jimoh explained that the arrests followed sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated operations by operatives of the command’s anti-kidnapping squad.

“Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives proceeded to Oyo State, where they worked in collaboration with the Police Command in Oyo State and arrested one Adamu Rabiu, a male adult, in Ibadan. In a related development, the second suspect, Haruna Likita, another adult male, was arrested around Ipele, via Owo, Ondo State, in connection with the same kidnapping incident.

“Preliminary investigation has established links between the two suspects and the kidnapping of Abubakar Abdullahi on Aug.1. During interrogation, both suspects made statements admitting their alleged involvement in the crime. Their statements, alongside other emerging intelligence, are being investigated further to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and identify other persons who may be connected to the crime,” he said.

According to him, the command is also intensifying efforts to uncover the wider network and operational structure of the syndicate, with a view to apprehending all those involved.

Jimoh, however, said the suspects would be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.

He explained that efforts were ongoing to pursue all credible leads and deploy intelligence-driven strategies to dismantle kidnapping networks and prevent criminal elements from finding refuge within the state.

“The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Felix Ohagwu, commends the operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for their diligence, courage and unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of residents. Ohagwu reassures members of the public of the command’s determination to sustain its operations against kidnappers and other violent criminals. The CP also urges residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to the police and other relevant security agencies,” the command’s spokesperson said.

Jimoh , therefore, encouraged members of the public to promptly report suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest police formation.

NAN