The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a suspected kidnap kingpin, Abdullahi Lawal, who had allegedly been terrorising communities in the Akoko axis of the state.
The suspect was apprehended in Ikare-Akoko, located in Akoko North-East Local Government Area, following months of intelligence-led operations by security operatives.
In a statement released on Tuesday in Akure, the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, described Lawal as the leader of a kidnapping gang responsible for several criminal activities in the area.
According to the police, Lawal was identified as the mastermind behind the abduction of Aremu Tijani, which occurred on August 18, 2025, at the victim’s farm located in the Ikare-Akoko area.
Jimoh recalled that security operatives had earlier engaged the kidnappers during a tactical operation that resulted in the death of three gang members and the arrest of four others. However, Lawal reportedly escaped during the confrontation despite sustaining gunshot wounds.
Following his escape, the police placed him on an intelligence watchlist and launched an extensive surveillance operation to track his whereabouts.
After months of investigation and coordinated security efforts, operatives were eventually able to locate and arrest the suspect in Ikare-Akoko.
The police spokesperson disclosed that Lawal has made useful confessional statements and will soon be charged in court.
Jimoh reiterated the command’s zero tolerance for kidnapping and other violent crimes, assuring residents that security agencies remain committed to dismantling criminal networks across the state.
He added that the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, commended the officers involved in the operation for their dedication and professionalism.
The command also appreciated members of the public for providing valuable information that supported the arrest and urged residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement authorities.
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