The state Police Commissioner, CP Wilfred Afolabi, who
confirmed the development at his office in Akure, the state capital on Saturday
evening, May 17, 2025 said the suspects were arrested following the
intelligence gathering of the command.
According to him, the suspects are, Babuga Muhammed, Ibrahim
Uma, Paul Osanyinduro, Abubakar Bamoh, Olaoluwa Olootu, Aliu Raymond,
Yahaya, Hasminu Jibirimi, Hammed Olabode and Adegoke Olayemi.
Babuga Muhammed, who was involved in the abduction of
Ogunniyi, was arrested during the operation.
According to the CP, the kidnappers had demanded a ransom of
N14m for the release of the victim.
“In the early hours of today (Saturday) a combined tactical
team of operatives from the Ondo State Police Command and local hunters based
in Ikare carried out a successful operation that led to the rescue of a kidnap
victim and the arrest of one of the suspects involved in the abduction,” the
police boss stated.
"The operation followed actionable intelligence
regarding the movement of suspected kidnappers responsible for the abduction of
one Ogunniyi Semiu on May 14, 2025, around Ikare Mine in Akoko North-East Local
Government Area
"Acting on the intelligence, the joint team
strategically laid an ambush in a forest area near Supare Mine, believed to be
a rendezvous point for the suspects who had demanded a ransom of N14 million.
"During the interception, the suspects engaged the
operatives in a fierce gun duel. In the exchange, several of the suspects
sustained serious gunshot injuries, while one of them—Babuga Muhammed from
Iseyin, Oyo State, was apprehended
“Crucially, the victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, was rescued alive
and unhurt. No ransom was paid.”
Afolabi stated further that the suspect was receiving
treatment for gunshot wounds at the State Specialist Hospital, while efforts
were ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects who escaped with
injuries.
He noted that some of the other suspects had confessed to
the commission of the crimes, urging the residents of the state to remain
vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with security
agencies.
"Together, we can and will build a safer Ondo State.
"I want to assure the good people of Ondo State that
the police command under my leadership will continue to act with
professionalism, impartiality, and resolve in protecting lives and property,”
the CP declared
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