Suspected herdsmen abduct travellers on Ondo highway
By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
Suspected herdsmen have abducted seven travellers in Ondo State.
The incidence took place near Benin-Owo highway not far from Ifon in Ondo State.
It was in this area that Mrs Funke Olakunrin, the daughter of Yoruba leader, Chief Rueben Fasoranti was killed by suspected herdsmen.
The traditional ruler of Ifon, a first class Oba Israel Adeusi was also killed in November 2020
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of the seven travellers along the Benin-Owo-Akure road near Ifon, Ose Local Government Area.
The victims, who were travelling from Akwa Ibom State to the South-West, were kidnapped by armed bandits late Friday night.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, stated:
“The incident happened on January 31 at about 12 am and seven travellers were involved. They were coming from Akwa Ibom State on a commercial bus. Our men are already making efforts to rescue the victims from the kidnappers and arrest the perpetrators.”
However, another source claimed that the actual number of them (victims), they were kidnapped on the Owo-Ipele road on Saturday morning at about 12 am. Their vehicles were stopped and they were dragged into the bush to an unknown destination.”
Amotekun Arrests 27 Suspected Criminals
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) has arrested 27 suspected criminals across the state.
According to Amotekun Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, 24 of the suspects were involved in various criminal activities, including:
• ATM fraud: Adu Ojo, a specialist in card scams.
• Rape and conspiracy: Suspects Mafo and Asara.
• Serial rape: Ayodele Ijilakinro.
• Illegal grazing: Idris Umaru, caught using underage herders on farmland.
• Other criminal offenses: Suspects Akpan, Alimi, and Emmanuel, arrested in Akure, Emure, and Ipeme-Owo, respectively.
Despite these arrests, Adeleye maintained that Ondo State remains relatively peaceful, with no major land, chieftaincy, labor, or religious conflicts.
However, he confirmed one farmer-herder clash and the arrest of three individuals suspected of kidnapping.
Security agencies continue to intensify efforts to combat crime and ensure the safety of residents and travellers in the state.
