The suspect was apprehended in Ikare-Akoko, located in the Akoko North East Local Government Area.
The Ondo State Police Command says it has arrested a wanted kidnapping suspect, Abdullahi Lawal, who allegedly terrorised communities in the Akoko area of Ondo State.
The suspect was apprehended in Ikare-Akoko, located in the Akoko North East Local Government Area.
The command’s spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Akure, saying the suspect was the leader of a kidnapping gang.
According to him, the arrest followed sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated security operations.
Jimoh explained that Lawal, who resides at Aderoju Camp in Ugbe Akoko Town, was identified as the mastermind behind the kidnapping of Aremu Tijani on August 18, 2025, at the victim’s bush farm in the Ikare-Akoko area.
He recalled that security operatives had earlier engaged the kidnappers during a tactical operation, which led to the killing of three gang members and the arrest of four other suspects.
However, the gang leader, Abdullahi Lawal, managed to escape at the time despite sustaining gunshot wounds during the confrontation with police operatives.
Following his escape, the police placed him on an intelligence watchlist and launched extensive surveillance and investigations to track his movements and possible hideouts.
After months of intelligence-led operations and coordinated efforts by security personnel, Lawal was eventually arrested by police operatives in Ikare-Akoko.
Police said the suspect has made useful confessional statements and will be charged in court.
Jimoh reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for kidnapping and other violent crimes, assuring residents that efforts are ongoing to dismantle criminal networks operating within the state and nearby communities.
He added that the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the dedication, professionalism and resilience of the officers involved in the operation.
The police chief also appreciated members of the public who continue to provide useful information that supports police operations.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through established security channels.
The command assured the public that proactive measures remain in place to ensure criminals cannot operate freely in Ondo State and to safeguard lives and property.
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