In a bid to fortify Ondo State against the encroaching threats of bandits and insurgents, the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has ramped up its operations, leading to the arrest of over 300 suspected criminals within the last three months.
Speaking at the Corps’ headquarters in Akure, the state capital, Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye disclosed the strategic efforts that have helped safeguard the state’s borders and maintain internal security.
According to Adeleye, the heightened vigilance stems from concerns over the influx of bandits fleeing military operations in the North, some of whom are suspected to have ties to extremist groups like the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Red Alert Across Ondo Borders
“We are not taking any chances,” Adeleye said. “With the recent increase in bandit activities across Nigeria, we remain on red alert to protect our people and prevent these criminals from infiltrating our communities.”
He revealed that most arrests were made in border towns and rural areas, where grassroots intelligence played a vital role in identifying suspicious activities.
“Our strategy involves constant patrols along the state’s boundaries, coupled with collaboration from community members who act as Amotekun ambassadors. These ambassadors discreetly gather information from villages and towns, which has been instrumental in tracking down bad actors,” Adeleye explained.
Criminal Syndicates Busted
The arrests, Adeleye said, include individuals linked to a range of criminal activities, from kidnapping and armed robbery to housebreaking and other offenses.
“In the past three months alone, we have apprehended over 300 suspects across 15 locations in all 18 local government areas. Some of these individuals were caught red-handed in border communities while attempting to infiltrate the state,” he noted.
Adeleye also confirmed that many of the suspects have been prosecuted, while others remain in custody pending further investigations or trial.
Amotekun’s Community-Driven Approach
The success of Amotekun Corps lies in its community-driven approach to security. Adeleye praised the role of grassroots networks, saying, “Homegrown solutions are essential for tackling domestic security challenges. We’ve created a system that relies heavily on the involvement of local communities to stay one step ahead of criminals.”
He added, “Amotekun ambassadors act as the eyes and ears of the Corps in rural areas, providing intelligence that helps us identify collaborators and deter potential threats.”
Building Confidence in the Southwest
Amotekun Corps, launched as a regional security initiative for the Southwest in 2020, has become a critical player in tackling rising insecurity in the region. The outfit was established to complement existing security agencies and address the unique security challenges faced by the region, including farmer-herder clashes and highway kidnappings.
In Ondo State, the Corps has gained public trust for its swift responses and proactive measures. Residents in border towns like Ose and Akoko North-East have commended the team for keeping criminal elements at bay.
“Our state would have been overrun by now if not for Amotekun,” said a community leader from the Owo area. “They are always on the move, and their presence gives us confidence that our safety is a priority.”
Concerns Over ISWAP and Boko Haram
The vigilance of Amotekun Corps comes amid growing concerns about the spread of terror networks like ISWAP and Boko Haram into the southern parts of Nigeria. Security experts have warned that as military pressure intensifies in the North, there is a risk of displaced insurgents seeking refuge and regrouping in other regions.
Adeleye emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing these threats, noting that Amotekun has strengthened partnerships with other security agencies in neighboring states.
“We cannot afford to work in isolation. Security is a collective responsibility, and we must remain united in our efforts to prevent any form of infiltration,” he stated.
Challenges and the Way Forward
Despite its achievements, Amotekun Corps faces challenges, including limited funding and equipment. Adeleye appealed to the state government and private sector stakeholders to provide more support for the outfit’s operations.
“We are committed to our mission, but additional resources would enable us to do even more. With better tools, we can expand our reach and improve our response time,” he said.
