The Ondo State government has directed security agencies to intensify operations against kidnapping syndicates following a surge in incidents across the state.
The directive was communicated in a statement posted on Tuesday by the Ministry of Information.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, said investigations revealed that some attacks were orchestrated by local collaborators aiming to portray the state as unsafe.
“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.
It further noted that these criminal activities were intended to create panic and tarnish the state’s image, warning that such acts “are unacceptable and will be met with firm and lawful action.” Security operatives have been mandated to enhance surveillance, clamp down on offenders, and ensure that anyone found culpable is apprehended, investigated, and prosecuted according to the law.
The government highlighted its ongoing investments to strengthen security, including providing utility vehicles and logistics support to agencies, constructing a Crime Control Centre for the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), and recruiting 500 personnel to boost intelligence gathering and rapid response operations.
Traditional rulers were urged to remain vigilant and monitor activities within their domains, while residents were advised to promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.
“The protection of lives and property remains the foremost priority of the Ondo State Government, and no individual or group will be allowed to undermine the peace, security, and stability of our dear state,” the statement added.
