One of two farmers abducted by gunmen in Okeigbo, Ondo State, has died in captivity, according to the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps.
The state security outfit said it had rescued five other kidnapping victims in separate operations across the state.
The two farmers were abducted from Parubber Community in Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Area, with the kidnappers reportedly demanding N100 million for their release.
Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adeleye, said the incident occurred several days ago and prompted nine operatives of the agency’s Special Squad to launch a rescue operation after receiving a distress call.
He said the operation was conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS), to track the kidnappers and locate the victims.
According to Adeleye, the operation was intensified following a directive from Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted farmers.
“I’m glad to let you know that several kilometres away from the scene of crime, we successfully secured the release of the two of them that were kidnapped in Okeigbo,” he said.
However, he said the kidnappers used deceptive tactics to mislead security operatives about their location.
The victims were eventually found deep inside a forest reserve, but one of them, a woman, was found dead, according to the commander.
“We were able to rescue a life without a problem, the man. But unfortunately, by the time we got there, the lady was exhausted and we couldn’t revive her because we met her dead or unconscious,” he said.
Adeleye added that one of the suspected kidnappers had been traced to Oyo State, with security agencies working together to apprehend the suspect.
In a separate operation around Ore in Odigbo Local Government Area, the Amotekun Corps said it arrested suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate.
“Today again, we have a group that specialises in kidnapping all in Odigbo Local Government. After very decisive actions, we were able to arrest the main culprits who in collaboration with some at large,” Adeleye said.
He also disclosed the arrest of two suspects, identified as Akinlolu and Akintimi, over alleged illegal possession of firearms.
Giving details of the arrests, the commander said nine suspects were apprehended for alleged offences relating to breaches of law and order, while five others were linked to kidnapping.
Adeleye said early distress calls from some victims’ families had enabled Amotekun personnel operating in forest areas to respond quickly and secure their release.
“Only yesterday night, we were equally able to rescue four men in the Ala-Dada axis that were being kidnapped,” he said.
The commander assured residents and prospective investors that the security agency would continue working to protect lives and property across Ondo State.
