The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has arrested a prime suspect in the murder of an All Progressives Congress (APC) Ward Chairman in Ose Local Government Area.

Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye disclosed this on Monday while parading 32 suspects arrested across the 18 local government areas of the state.

He said the murder suspect has confessed to the crime and led operatives into the forest where items stolen from the victim’s family were recovered.

“This arrest is a major breakthrough in our fight against criminality. The suspect not only admitted to the crime but also took us to the hideout where the victim’s belongings were found,” Adeleye said.

The Amotekun boss stated that the arrest was part of the Corps’ sustained efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and safeguard lives and property.

Among the other suspects paraded were individuals arrested for offences ranging from kidnapping, armed robbery, rape, anti-grazing violations, forgery, cultism, to theft.

Adeleye disclosed that 10 suspects were arrested for kidnapping, with several victims successfully identifying their abductors.

“Two armed robbery suspects who operated along the Benin-Ore Expressway were also apprehended, while a case of rape is currently under investigation.

He further highlighted the success of the joint security task force in the Aladada axis of Akure North, where no attacks on farmers or residents in Ago Oyinbo, Ago Ademekun, and the powerline area have been recorded in the past two weeks.

The Commander listed the arrested suspects to include Ali Muhammad (35), Habib Kasim (30), Bobade Ojo (45), Shedrack (25), Adamu Bello (25), Adelewa Funto (20), Suleman Yakubu (40), Mohammed (20), Isiaku Yakubu (28), and Useni Bala (18), all arrested in connection with kidnapping and other crimes in forests and communities such as Ute, Jugbere, Ifon, Elegbeka, Oda Road, and Ipele in the Owo axis.

Other arrests include Michael (23), nabbed for armed robbery in Odigbo, and Lawal (37), apprehended for forgery and aiding criminal activity.

Also paraded were a notorious cultist and vehicle parts dismantler, identified as Henry, arrested in Okitipupa, and David, caught stealing cocoa seeds and motorcycles.

A housebreaking gang, including Ayomide (26), Joseph (23), and Bello (29), was also among those apprehended.

Additionally, two individuals posing as scrap collectors while serving as informants to kidnappers and robbers were arrested. They were identified as Bamisaye (32) and Omoniyi (19).

Adeleye reaffirmed the Corps’ unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across the state, particularly for farmers in rural communities.

He assured that Amotekun rangers would maintain their presence in the forests as directed by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.

He called on residents to promptly report suspicious activities using the Corps’ emergency number: 0807 999 9989, assuring quick response.

“Ondo State remains relatively peaceful and safe for residents, journalists, businessmen, and investors,” Adeleye stated.

“We are committed to sustaining this peace and ensuring the security of all.”