Cracking Down on Crime: Ondo Police Command Steps Up with Arrests, Recoveries, and Renewed Firepower

By _Fortune Ibeh_

The Ondo State Police Command is reinforcing its stance against crime with a wave of decisive operations, arrests, and strategic acquisitions that reflect a growing emphasis on intelligence-led policing and technological integration.

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In a major breakthrough, a notorious four-man armed robbery syndicate operating across Akure, Owo, and surrounding areas was recently dismantled. The gang, responsible for violent assaults and car thefts, was brought down through coordinated efforts by the Command’s Tactical Intelligence and Response Squad (TIRS), leading to the arrest of all members and recovery of stolen vehicles and mobile devices. A suspected arms supplier linked to the group remains at large, with investigations ongoing.

In a separate case of obtaining by false pretence (OBT), two male suspects were arrested after a complaint from an online vendor who had been defrauded of goods worth ₦4.5 million through fake bank alerts. The prime suspect remains on the run, while police continue to pursue leads.

Another swift intervention by the Anti-Kidnapping Section followed the report of stolen livestock worth ₦41 million. Within 48 hours, 22 cows were recovered, while the search for the fleeing employee responsible continues.

The fight against cultism also saw gains as the police apprehended a wanted cult leader known as “Kendowell” in Owo. The suspect had long terrorized students and residents around Rufus Giwa Polytechnic. Efforts are ongoing to arrest his accomplices.

Tragedy struck in Idanre with a fraternal altercation leading to the fatal stabbing of a 22-year-old. Police acted swiftly, arresting the suspect and transferring the case to the State CID for further investigation.

In Akure, the Special Operations Squad arrested a burglary gang that looted a residence on 21st June 2025. Stolen items including smartphones, an Apple wristwatch, and cash were recovered, and three suspects, including a habitual buyer of stolen goods are in custody.

Meanwhile, the Command addressed misinformation concerning a rumored kidnapper’s den in Owo. Investigations revealed the abandoned building in question was a disused government facility with no criminal links. The Command warned against spreading panic-inducing falsehoods, noting that such actions jeopardize public trust and safety.

Backing these operational successes is a significant boost in capacity. The Nigeria Police Force recently deployed a state-of-the-art gunboat to Ondo State to bolster marine policing, particularly in riverine communities. Additionally, rugged patrol vehicles were provided by the Ondo State Government under Governor Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa, aimed at improving mobility, response time, and patrol coverage.

These assets are already transforming field operations, enabling better surveillance, rapid response, and wider reach, especially in remote areas.

The Command’s recent achievements underscore a broader shift toward smarter, tech-driven law enforcement. With the integration of tracking systems, digital surveillance, and forensic tools, the Ondo State Police are better positioned to identify, disrupt, and dismantle criminal networks across the state.

As Ondo State Police Command continues with strategic focus and operational intensity, residents can expect a more secure, more responsive policing structure, one built on precision, accountability, and sustained collaboration with state and federal stakeholders.