The Ondo State Police Command has rescued a kidnap victim, Ogunniyi Semiu and arrested 12 suspected criminals involved in crimes such as kidnapping, stealing, armed robbery, and cultism.
The state Police Commissioner, CP Wilfred Afolabi, who confirmed the development at his office in Akure, the state capital on Saturday evening, May 17, 2025 said the suspects were arrested following the intelligence gathering of the command.
According to him, the suspects are, Babuga Muhammed, Ibrahim Uma, Paul Osanyinduro, Abubakar Bamoh, Olaoluwa Olootu, Aliu Raymond, Yahaya, Hasminu Jibirimi, Hammed Olabode and Adegoke Olayemi.
Babuga Muhammed, who was involved in the abduction of Ogunniyi, was arrested during the operation.
According to the CP, the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of N14m for the release of the victim.
“In the early hours of today (Saturday) a combined tactical team of operatives from the Ondo State Police Command and local hunters based in Ikare carried out a successful operation that led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and the arrest of one of the suspects involved in the abduction,” the police boss stated.
“The operation followed actionable intelligence regarding the movement of suspected kidnappers responsible for the abduction of one Ogunniyi Semiu on May 14, 2025, around Ikare Mine in Akoko North-East Local Government Area
“Acting on the intelligence, the joint team strategically laid an ambush in a forest area near Supare Mine, believed to be a rendezvous point for the suspects who had demanded a ransom of N14 million.
“During the interception, the suspects engaged the operatives in a fierce gun duel. In the exchange, several of the suspects sustained serious gunshot injuries, while one of them—Babuga Muhammed from Iseyin, Oyo State, was apprehended.
“Crucially, the victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, was rescued alive and unhurt. No ransom was paid.”
Afolabi stated further that the suspect was receiving treatment for gunshot wounds at the State Specialist Hospital, while efforts were ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects who escaped with injuries.
He noted that some of the other suspects had confessed to the commission of the crimes, urging the residents of the state to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security agencies.
“Together, we can and will build a safer Ondo State.
“I want to assure the good people of Ondo State that the police command under my leadership will continue to act with professionalism, impartiality, and resolve in protecting lives and property,” the CP declared
