Armed bandits this week attacked Ifelodun Local Government in Kwara State, abducting ten people across Ahun and Oro-Ago communities. Six were taken in Ahun, and four in Oro-Ago and Oyate.

Among the victims were Clement Emmanuel, a sawmill operator, and his apprentice, Solomon, who were seized while cutting trees in Ahun. Two others, Adewole and Adebayo, were kidnapped while preparing charcoal.

Mrs. Emmanuel, the wife of Clement, told reporters the kidnappers demanded N10 million ransom. “Please help plead with them to release my husband. Where will I get N10 million?” she lamented.

Police Commissioner Adekimi Ojo said the command launched a coordinated intelligence-led operation in Oro-Ago after intercepting communications indicating that the syndicate planned to service and refit motorcycles for criminal operations.

“The operation led to the arrest of ten suspects, including a mechanic and a logistics operative supporting the gang.

Ten Bajaj Boxer motorcycles suspected to be used in banditry were recovered,” Ojo said.

In a separate operation, the police also apprehended kidnappers of construction workers and engineers at a site along Owu Falls Road in Ifelodun LGA. Officers traced the suspects using a victim’s stolen mobile phone, enabling digital tracking and precise location.

Additionally, a 23-year-old female suspect, Awawu Maliki Bodo, was arrested in connection with the abductions, with a revolver and three live cartridges recovered.

Investigations continue to identify and apprehend other accomplices. (Guardian)

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