The Nigeria Police Force, Ondo State Command, has arrested 286 criminal suspects in a sweeping security crackdown across Ondo State between January and March 2026.
The arrests, announced at the command headquarters in Akure, highlight intensified efforts to combat kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism and other violent crimes threatening public safety.
Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, disclosed that the suspects were linked to multiple offences, including 30 kidnapping cases, 10 cases of murder and homicide, 17 armed robbery incidents, 15 unlawful possession of firearms offences, five rape and defilement cases, and 41 cult-related crimes.
An additional 168 suspects were arrested for other criminal activities.
In the course of the operations, the command recovered 75 exhibits and successfully rescued eight kidnap victims.
According to Lawal, the breakthrough resulted from intelligence-led policing, coordinated tactical deployments, sustained patrols and strengthened community collaboration.
He emphasized that proactive security strategies remain critical to dismantling criminal networks operating within the state.
Night Worship Suspension Over Security Concerns
Following the recent abduction of worshippers during a church vigil, the police reiterated a directive suspending night religious activities across the state.
The commissioner urged religious leaders—Christian, Muslim and traditional worshippers—to temporarily halt night gatherings to enhance monitoring and response capabilities.
Lawal stressed that security agencies must be informed in advance of large gatherings to provide risk assessments and expert guidance.
Public Cooperation Key to Fighting Crime
The police chief called on residents to provide timely and credible intelligence to security agencies, noting that public cooperation is vital in strengthening security operations and reducing violent crime in Ondo State.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustained anti-crime operations to ensure safer communities in 2026.
