The Ondo State Government has directed security agencies to step up operations against kidnapping syndicates operating in parts of the state following a recent spike in incidents.
The directive came after investigations reportedly uncovered that some of the attacks were masterminded by local collaborators attempting to paint the state as unsafe.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, said the criminal acts were intended to incite fear and tarnish the state’s reputation.
He cautioned that such actions “are unacceptable and will be met with firm and lawful action.”
“The Ondo State Government has expressed deep concern over the recent kidnapping incidents in the state, which have been discovered to have been orchestrated by some locals within those parts of the state and the government has directed all security agencies to crack down on them,” the statement read.
The government has instructed security operatives to enhance surveillance of individuals and groups suspected to be involved, ensuring that anyone found culpable is apprehended, investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
It emphasised that significant resources have been committed to strengthening the state’s security framework. These measures include the provision of utility vehicles and logistical support to security agencies, the establishment of a Crime Control Centre for the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), and the recent recruitment of 500 additional personnel to bolster intelligence gathering and rapid response efforts.
The government further urged traditional rulers to remain alert and closely monitor activities within their domains, advising them to promptly report suspicious movements to the relevant authorities.
In the full statement titled ONDO STATE GOVERNMENT DIRECTS SECURITY AGENCIES TO CRACKDOWN ON KIDNAPPING SYNDICATES, the administration reiterated its determination to confront criminal elements.
“The government is aware that the unscrupulous elements want to use the criminal activities to portray Ondo State as unsafe. Such acts are unacceptable and will be met with firm and lawful action,” it stated.
Security agencies have been mandated to intensify surveillance and immediately clamp down on those behind the crimes, with instructions to ensure suspects are thoroughly investigated and brought to justice.
The statement also highlighted ongoing investments in security infrastructure, including support vehicles, operational logistics and the construction of a state-of-the-art Crime Control Centre for the Amotekun Corps.
Traditional rulers were encouraged to strengthen community-based intelligence efforts, while residents were reminded not to ignore suspicious activity.
“If you see something, say something,” the government urged, reaffirming that safeguarding lives and property remains its foremost priority and that no individual or group will be permitted to undermine the peace and stability of the state.