The Western Nigeria Security Network, code-named Amotekun Corps in Ondo, has foiled five kidnap attempts in two weeks.

Its commander, Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed this on Wednesday in Akure while addressing journalists.

Mr Adeleye said no ransom was paid in the five cases, while the latest attempt took place on Monday, where a chief in a community close to Akure was kidnapped.

He explained that the distress line was contacted, and with the joint efforts of the local hunters and Amotekun operatives, the kidnappers were pursued overnight.

“We were able to retrieve the chief and the Okada rider who were kidnapped without the payment of any ransom. Also in the Akoko axis, some kidnappers ravaged farms, raped the women, and took some victims between 1:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. along Ajegunle Road.

“Within 48 hours, the people were released, and three of the suspects who had been identified as part of the gang were arrested. We have them here, both the victim and the suspects.

“The same thing goes for the Central senatorial district, where some kidnapped suspects were arrested again by Amotekun and were equally identified by the victims. Today, we have a total of 17 suspects: eight under breaking of law and order, three for kidnapping, and six involved in robbery and rape,” Mr Adeleye said.

The commander assured that Amotekun was prepared to collaborate with other security agencies to ensure the sustenance of the peaceful atmosphere currently enjoyed in the state.

Mr Adeleye also said farmer-herder clashes in the state had reduced drastically and urged Ondo residents to support the corps with timely information.

(NAN)