Akure: The Ondo State Police Command says it has arrested no fewer than 2,500 suspects for various offences over the past seven months, underscoring what officials describe as an intensified crackdown on crime across the state.
Mr Adebowale Lawal, Commissioner of Police (CP) in Ondo State, who made the disclosure on Friday in Akure during a news conference, said the offences comprised murder, armed robbery, kidnapping and cultism, among others.
“50 suspects were arrested for murder; 250 for unlawful possession of substances suspected to be hard drugs, and 40 for armed robbery.
“49 suspects were arrested for kidnapping, 85 for vandalism/stealing, 407 for cultism, and 1,799 for other offences.
“105 firearms, 92 vehicles and motorcycles, 27 unregistered/forged vehicle documents, 27 stolen vehicles, 10 ammunition, 200 rounds of AA cartridges and 103 impounded or contravened items were recovered as exhibits,” he said.
Lawal said the success recorded was due to collective efforts that contributed significantly to a safer environment and a measurable decline in high-impact crimes in the state.
“Security remains a collective responsibility, so citizens should continue to support our ongoing efforts by providing credible and actionable information that will help prevent crimes before they occur.
“The command also remembers with a deep sense of loss, the officers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
“We lost some personnel during active service in the course of the year. They were gallant, dedicated, and courageous officers whose sacrifices will never be forgotten,” the CP said.
He therefore reassured Ondo State residents of his unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.
“The command remains resolute in consolidating these gains and will not relent in its fight against crime in all its forms,” he said.
