Ondo State Police Command has arrested and arraigned two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate linked to multiple abductions across several communities in the state, marking a significant step in the fight against criminal activities in the region. The suspects, identified as Bello Denge, 30, and Umar Isah, 25, were apprehended following intelligence-driven operations conducted by police operatives. The arrest was announced in a statement released on May 4, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi K. Jimoh, and shared on the official page of the Ondo State Police Command.
The suspects were formally charged in court on April 30, 2026, on charges related to kidnapping and other violent crimes. Their identities were confirmed by no fewer than nine victims during a rigorous identification exercise held at the Command Headquarters. Each victim independently verified the suspects’ involvement in separate abduction cases, providing crucial evidence that strengthened the case against them.
Investigations revealed that the duo was part of a larger criminal network responsible for abductions in communities including Iluabo, Eleyowo, Iju-Itaogbolu, and Pelebe. These areas have seen increased insecurity, particularly targeting farmers and rural residents. The police noted that the suspects were primarily active in rural zones where security presence is often limited, making them vulnerable to such criminal activities.
The statement emphasized that the victims’ testimonies were consistent and detailed, confirming the suspects’ active participation in the series of abductions. The police have since remanded both suspects at the Nigerian Correctional Service facility in Olokuta, where they remain in custody pending further legal processes. Authorities are also intensifying efforts to track and apprehend other members of the syndicate who are still at large.
The Ondo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, pledging to continue aggressive operations against all forms of criminality. In a public appeal, the command urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station. Credible information, the police stressed, is vital to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring lasting peace in the state.
This development comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in the southern part of Nigeria, where kidnapping and armed robbery have become persistent threats. The arrest of these two suspects is seen as a positive step toward restoring public confidence and improving security in Ondo State. The police’s proactive approach signals a firm stance against crime, and the public is hopeful that more arrests will follow in the coming weeks.
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