Police arrest two suspected kidnappers in Ondo

The Ondo State Police Command has said it had arrested two persons suspected to be kidnappers at Ayede Community in Akure North Local Government Area of the state .

It was earlier reported that some bandits attacked the Ayede community and kidnapped a pregnant woman, Mrs Mary Jesulayomi.

The victim was later released after an undisclosed amount was paid as ransom.

According to a statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, on Friday, the police command identified the suspects as Okotie, and Michael .

They were also alleged to have being in possession of firearms

The statement read, “The Ondo State Police Command, in its sustained efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state, reaffirming its commitment to the protection of lives and property which continues to underpin the Command’s proactive and intelligence-driven approach to crime prevention and enforcement with the arrest of two kidnapping suspects, recovery of firearm and live ammunitions in Odo Ala, Ayede Town, Ondo State.

On 12th February, 2026, at about 0948hrs, operatives of Tactical Intelligence Response Squad, acting on credible intelligence, carried out a targeted operation in the area. During the operation, two suspects were apprehended.

“A thorough search conducted on the suspects led to the recovery of one single-barrel rifle and 18 live cartridges concealed in their possession.”

The PPRO noted that the suspects had been taken into custody, where they had made useful statements that are currently aiding ongoing investigations, “particularly in efforts to apprehend their cohorts and uncover the full extent of their criminal activities.”

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr Adebowale Lawal, noted the importance of Intelligence-led operations in combating kidnapping activities.

He also commended the operatives for their prompt and professional conduct in nabbing the suspects.