The Ondo State Police Command has arrested 10 suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate and recovered ransom money during a coordinated operation in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The operation, carried out on February 23, 2026, was led by the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Section in collaboration with visiting Police Mobile Force (PMF) personnel deployed to the state as operational support.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the suspects were apprehended following credible intelligence that prompted operatives to mobilise to locations along Ondo Road in Akure.

Those arrested were identified as Muritala Muhammed, 22; Mustapha Adamu, 20; Usman Ibrahim, 25; Amisu Aruna, 28; Asiru Abdulasis, 20; Abduliu Sanni, 22; Ibrahim Suraju, 20; Noah Isiaku, 20; Abdulahi Suraju, 20; and Arabi Hamet, 18.

Police said an operational motorcycle allegedly used by the syndicate was recovered during the raid, alongside ransom money believed to have been obtained from victims.

The Command disclosed that part of the recovered cash included burnt currency notes, which have been documented as exhibits as investigations continue.

Preliminary investigations, according to the police, indicate that the suspects have made confessional statements outlining the roles each allegedly played within the syndicate. Authorities added that efforts are ongoing to track down other accomplices who may still be at large.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebowale Lawal, reassured residents of the Command’s determination to rid the state of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

Lawal urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies, stressing that community partnership remains critical in combating criminal activities.

He further called on communities across the state to organise and strengthen credible vigilante groups to complement the efforts of the police and other security agencies, noting that security is a collective responsibility. 

The Command reiterated its resolve to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety of lives and property across Ondo State.