LAGOS, NIGERIA — (NPA) March 16, 2026 — The Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspected logistics suppliers linked to a kidnapping syndicate terrorising the Ilu-Abo community and its surrounding areas.
The suspects, Alhassan Muhammad (20) and Faruq Muhammad Sanni (25), both residents of Sabon-Sango, Akure, were apprehended on March 15, 2026, following credible intelligence provided by a vigilant member of the Ilu-Abo community.
According to a statement issued by DSP Abayomi Jimoh, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), one of the suspects posed as a commercial motorcyclist while secretly working with kidnappers, delivering supplies to their hideouts.
Upon the arrest by the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad, other members of the criminal syndicate fled the scene. Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had been playing supportive roles in sustaining the kidnappers’ operations within the forested areas around Ilu-Abo and neighbouring communities.
The suspects are currently in custody and have provided useful information that will aid further investigations. The police have intensified efforts to track down the remaining suspects and dismantle the entire kidnapping network. The arrested individuals will be charged in court upon completion of the investigations.
The statement read in part: “The Ondo State Police Command commends the vigilance, courage, and cooperation of members of the Ilu-Abo community whose timely, credible, and actionable information greatly contributed to the success of the operation.”
The Command emphasised that community support remains a critical component in the fight against crime and urged residents to continue providing credible information to security agencies. It assured the public that all information received will be treated with strict confidentiality.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and will continue to deploy strategic operations aimed at ridding the state of kidnapping and other criminal activities.”
