Members of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, have detained 28 individuals suspected of abducting more than 70 Ghanaian citizens within the state.
The captives were tricked into coming to Oda Road in Akure South Local Government Area with misleading promises of obtaining travel arrangements to Australia.
The criminal network was uncovered after one captive successfully broke free and informed the authorities. Following this lead, Amotekun personnel stormed the location, liberating the captives and apprehending the perpetrators.
Presenting the suspects at the Amotekun headquarters in Alagbaka, Akure, the Corps Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, explained the tactics used by the offenders to mislead their targets.
“We have Ghanaian nationals who were invited to Akure under fraudulent pretenses. Upon arrival, they were extorted—some paying between $1,500 and $2,000—only to be kidnapped and held in Oda.”
Adeleye also disclosed that the group compelled their captives to recruit additional victims as a condition for their release.
“The victims were told they had to bring in more people before they could be released. Fortunately, through our intelligence efforts, we were able to intercept and rescue them.”
One of the rescued individuals, Jeremiah Amoah, shared his harrowing experience.
“A friend convinced me that this was a real opportunity to travel abroad. But after they took my money, they locked me up and told me I had to bring another person before I would be released. One night, when everyone was asleep, I managed to jump over the wall and escape.”
Amoah conveyed his appreciation to the Amotekun Corps, noting that their actions were crucial in securing the freedom of the captives.
The 28 suspects are presently detained, and officials have initiated deeper inquiries to guarantee they are brought to justice.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli