The Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps) says it prosecuted at least 600 suspects for different crimes between January and June. 

Amotekun commander Adetunji Adeleye revealed this on Wednesday while parading 48 suspected criminals in Akure. 

Mr Adeleye said the offences of those prosecuted range from kidnapping, banditry, armed robbery, drug peddling, human trafficking, burglary, and cultism, among several other crimes against the law. 

“About 600 suspects have also been prosecuted between January and June 2024,” he disclosed. We want them to know that even as kidnappers, once you kidnap, you can’t get away with it. If you steal cars, you can’t get away with it. If you break houses, we’ll pick you. Then, what is the point of doing what you know you won’t get away with? We’re telling you criminals in the state to get out of here.”

Mr Adeleye added, “We want to reassure our people that the government of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is resolute in making the state conducive for businesses, social activities and all that makes the state a good one to stay.” 

Regarding the 48 suspects, Mr Adeleye said Amotekun apprehended a syndicate involved in ‘one-chance’ robbery and currency counterfeiting. 

“We equally responded to the distress call in Owo at midnight Wednesday where a car was stolen and within 30 minutes, we were able to recover the vehicle and we are on the trail of the robbers,” said Mr Adeleye. “We have 48 suspects today and all of these suspects have been profiled and will be taken to the next level which is the appropriate court of law for trial. We were able to retrieve three and the kingpin of the criminal activities was arrested.”

Mr Adeleye added that the suspects had an herbalist who deceived them by telling innocent and unsuspecting passengers that they could produce dollars for them, which he noted were all counterfeit currency.

“All they need to tell the victims is to go home and bring all their valuables for these counterfeit dollars. So, they collected naira from them in exchange for counterfeit dollars,” added the Amotekun boss. “We were able to break their cartel and you can see the pots and charms they use in hypnotising their customers.”