The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, has recorded another major breakthrough in the fight against kidnapping, rescuing eight abducted victims—including a teacher and a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG)—without paying a single kobo in ransom.
The victims were freed during a series of intelligence-led operations across different parts of Ondo State, following their abduction by armed kidnappers who had reportedly demanded as much as ₦30 million for their release.
Among those rescued were RCCG pastor and teacher, Mr. Fagbonmire Durojaiye, Muhammad, who was kidnapped in Ogbese, Moses Keke, Sefanu, Kabiru, Saradin, Ijojo and Emeka Ngo.
The victims were abducted from different communities, including Ilado in Akure North Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly stormed the area and whisked residents into nearby forests.
Speaking on the successful operation, Ondo Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, revealed that operatives tracked the kidnappers to their hideout through credible intelligence and engaged them in a fierce gun duel.
"Acting on actionable intelligence, our men located the kidnappers deep inside the forest. Following an exchange of gunfire, the criminals fled, leaving behind all eight victims who were rescued unharmed," Adeleye said.
The commander noted that the operation came barely two days after the corps paraded 46 suspected kidnappers arrested across the state.
"We assured the people of Ondo State that our operatives would return to the forests after the parade, and we fulfilled that promise. The result is the successful rescue of eight kidnapped victims within 24 to 48 hours," he stated.
Adeleye emphasized that despite the kidnappers' demand for ₦30 million, no ransom was paid.
"Not a kobo was paid. Through technology, intelligence gathering and strategic operations, we secured the release of all victims safely and without compromise," he added.
The traditional ruler of Ilado Community, the Olu Ilado, Oba Ifedayo Ademira, praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the Amotekun Corps for their swift response and commitment to protecting residents.
According to the monarch, the rescue operation demonstrates the effectiveness of sustained support for local security initiatives.
"I remained in constant contact with the Amotekun commander throughout the operation. He assured me the victims would return safely, and to the glory of God, they have all reunited with their families," the monarch said.
The rescued victims have since been reunited with their loved ones, while security has been intensified in affected communities as authorities continue efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing kidnappers.
