Ondo Police Arrest Four Suspected Kidnappers, Recover ₦1.4 Million Ransom

 Ondo Police Arrest Four Suspected Kidnappers, Recover ₦1.4 Million Ransom

The Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State has arrested four suspected kidnappers believed to be involved in a deadly attack and abduction that occurred earlier this year.

According to the police, the suspects were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation carried out by tactical officers of the command in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps.

Police spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed in a statement on Friday that the suspects are connected to the violent incident that took place on January 26, 2026, along Liberty Avenue in the Ilu-Abo area of the state.

During the attack, a man identified as John Ofuduwa was killed, while a woman, Oladeinde Tomilola, was abducted but later regained her freedom.

Intelligence Operation Led To Arrest

Jimoh explained that the breakthrough followed credible intelligence indicating that the suspects were staying at a hotel located behind Ado Garage in Akure.

Acting on the information, police tactical teams, working alongside Amotekun operatives, moved swiftly to the location and successfully arrested the suspects.

The suspects were identified as:

Abdullahi Ismaila (20)

Babanyara Japi (25)

Babuga Abubakar (25)

Adama Usman (15)

₦1.4 Million Recovered

During the operation, security operatives recovered ₦1.4 million, which authorities believe to be ransom money obtained from kidnapping activities. The cash has since been taken into police custody as evidence.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects may be members of a criminal gang operating around the Eleyowo, Ilu-Abo, and Ogbese areas of the state.

The victim, Tomilola, reportedly identified the suspects and expressed gratitude to the police for their efforts in tracking down those responsible for the crime.

Investigation Ongoing

Police authorities stated that investigations are still ongoing to determine the full extent of the suspects’ involvement in kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities within the state.

The command also noted that efforts are being intensified to locate and arrest other members of the suspected criminal syndicate.

The police reiterated their commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state while urging residents to support security agencies with timely and credible information.