The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, has arrested 39 suspected terrorists who reportedly fled Sokoto State following the U.S. military’s Christmas Day airstrikes in Nigeria’s North-West region.
While parading 100 suspects apprehended across the state, the Corps Commander, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, said the 39 suspects confessed to leaving Sokoto as a result of intensified military operations.
According to him, the individuals relocated to forest areas within Ondo State after fleeing from the northern part of the country.
“A few days ago, we arrested 39 suspects who claimed they were escaping the heat from security operations in the North. We’re currently profiling them, and those found with incriminating materials will be prosecuted,” Adeleye said.
“The state government has made it clear—anyone residing in our forest reserves must obtain official permits. The sudden influx of these individuals raises serious concerns we are still investigating.”
He added that collaboration between border patrol units in neighboring states—Ekiti, Osun, and Ogun—has produced significant results. Some suspects not paraded on Tuesday are still under investigation, with arrests extending into Ogun State.
Speaking further, Adeleye disclosed that out of 100 suspects arrested, 61 were paraded: 50 for various offenses including breach of public peace, two for violating anti-open grazing laws, six over kidnapping-related allegations, and three for gender-based abuse and rape. The suspects are aged between 18 and 45 years.
Among those arrested for rape were 19-year-old Daniel Ojo, 33-year-old Usman, and 41-year-old Bejide, apprehended in the Isinkan area of Akure, the state capital.
Adeleye expressed appreciation to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for providing an enabling environment for Amotekun’s operations.
He also commended other security agencies—the Police, Civil Defence, Army, DSS, local vigilantes, and members of the public—for their continued cooperation and support
