Police, Ondo security agencies arrest 99 suspects in statewide raid

Crime Diary

ABUJA, NIGERIA — (NPA) MARCH 14 — The Ondo State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has arrested 99 suspects during a coordinated statewide raid on February 8, 2026. The operation, which involved the Ondo State Police Command, the 32 Brigade Artillery of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Directorate of State Services (DSS), and the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), targeted criminal hideouts, black spots, and flashpoints across the state.

The suspects are allegedly linked to armed robbery, burglary, theft, cultism, and other crimes. Stolen property and incriminating exhibits were reportedly recovered during the raids. Authorities confirmed that the individuals are undergoing screening and profiling, with those found culpable to be charged in court.

According to a statement by the state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abayomi Jimoh, on Saturday, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, commended the professionalism and synergy displayed by all participating agencies. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to intelligence-driven policing and joint operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks.

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Lawal warned that Ondo State will not serve as a haven for criminals and urged residents to support security agencies with timely, credible, and actionable information. He emphasised that sustained collaboration between the public and security forces is vital to maintaining peace and order across the state.

Recent crime statistics in Ondo State show a rise in cult-related violence and petty theft, particularly in urban centres such as Akure and Ondo town. Security agencies say the latest raid is part of a broader crackdown aimed at curbing these trends, restoring public confidence, and ensuring that communities remain safe for residents and businesses.