Amotekun Rescues 8 Kidnap Victims in Ondo
Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun, have successfully rescued eight kidnapped passengers in the Akoko North area of the state, following a swift response to a distress call.
The rescue took place on Sunday, May 25, 2026, and was announced by the Amotekun Corps Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, during a press briefing at the agency’s headquarters in Akure.
Adeleye revealed that the abduction occurred along the route between Ase and Isua, close to the Ishe, Iboropa, and Ugbe communities — areas known for frequent attacks by criminal elements.
He explained that one of the victims managed to contact Amotekun’s distress line, prompting an immediate response from a mobile patrol team stationed near the Edo-Ondo boundary by the Ibilo axis.
The quick intervention led to the safe rescue of eight victims, including the driver of one of the attacked vehicles, Samuel Okunola, and several other passengers identified as Alausa, Kasali, Paul, Sani, and Moses.
Adeleye also confirmed that the driver of a second vehicle sustained machete wounds and is currently receiving medical care, while six additional passengers with minor injuries were also recovered from the surrounding forest area.
In his address, Adeleye urged the public — especially farmers — to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, particularly involving armed herders.
He reiterated that the Ondo State government does not permit the use of firearms for cattle rearing and warned that such violations should be promptly reported.
“Our response time is under three minutes across the state,” he said, adding that the government remains firm in its policy against ransom payments.
“All victims were rescued without paying a kobo. Ondo State does not negotiate with kidnappers,” he stressed.
One of the victims, 52-year-old Samuel Okunola, expressed deep gratitude for the timely rescue.
“We were attacked on our way from Ibilo to Ikare. Amotekun showed up quickly and drove the kidnappers away.
No ransom was paid. We are truly grateful to God and to the governor for backing Amotekun,” he said.
Amotekun Rescues 8 Kidnap Victims in Ondo