VICTIMS IDENTIFY TWO SUSPECTED KIDNAP KINGPINS IN ONDO STATE

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By:Tajudeen Aminat

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested and arraigned two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate allegedly responsible for several abductions across parts of the state.

This was contained in a statement issued on May 4, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi K. Jimoh, and published on the command’s official page.

According to the statement, the suspects—identified as 30-year-old Bello Denge and 25-year-old Umar Isah—were arrested following intelligence-led operations conducted by police operatives.

The police said no fewer than nine victims identified the suspects during an identification parade at the Command Headquarters, confirming their alleged involvement in separate kidnapping cases.

Investigations reportedly linked the suspects to a criminal network operating in communities such as Iluabo, Eleyowo, Iju-Itaogbolu, and Pelebe, where farmers and other residents were targeted.

“The victims independently confirmed the suspects’ active involvement in a series of abductions,” the statement noted.

The Command further disclosed that the suspects were charged to court on April 30, 2026, on counts relating to kidnapping and other violent offences.

They have since been remanded at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Olokuta, while efforts continue to track down other fleeing members of the syndicate.

Reaffirming its commitment, the police stated that it remains dedicated to protecting lives and property and will intensify operations against criminal activities.

The Command also urged residents to stay vigilant and provide credible information to support ongoing security efforts.