A major security crackdown in Ondo State has uncovered a criminal network involving suspected kidnappers, robbers, and individuals disguising as mentally unstable persons to avoid detection.
The Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, confirmed the arrest of 98 suspected criminals during coordinated operations across the state.
Among those arrested were individuals accused of pretending to be mad people while allegedly working as informants for kidnapping gangs and robbery syndicates.
The discovery has stirred reactions across Ondo as residents express concern over how criminal groups allegedly used disguises to move freely without attracting suspicion.
According to Amotekun authorities, the arrests followed several anti-crime operations targeting kidnapping, robbery, drug trafficking, and other threats to public safety.
Furthermore, officials disclosed that many of the suspects were arrested at locations linked to planned abductions and criminal meetings.
Speaking during the briefing, Adeleye explained that security operatives had spent weeks monitoring suspicious movements before carrying out the arrests.
He also revealed that some suspects allegedly disguised themselves as mentally unstable individuals while secretly gathering intelligence for criminal gangs.
“The fake lunatics were involved in intelligence gathering for kidnappers, drug peddling, robbery, and other criminal operations,” Adeleye stated.
According to him, the suspects used the disguise to monitor communities, study movement patterns, and pass information to armed gangs.
Moreover, the commander disclosed that operatives tracked locations where the suspects allegedly charged phones, changed clothes, and coordinated activities before attacks.
The revelation has therefore raised fresh concerns about the changing tactics used by criminal networks across parts of the country.
Adeleye further stated that some suspects were arrested while attempting to carry out kidnappings in different parts of Ondo State.
In addition, he confirmed that 60 suspects are already facing prosecution in court.
Another 38 cases, according to him, were resolved through the Alternative Dispute Resolution process.
Meanwhile, investigations are still ongoing on 13 additional suspects who may also face prosecution.
Residents have also been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.
Furthermore, Amotekun officials said the agency remains committed to strengthening local security operations across Ondo communities.
