Ondo Police Arrest Two Suspected Kidnappers, Expand Probe Into Wider Network

Newslens NG reports that the Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate linked to the abduction of one Abubakar Abdullahim at Molege, near Owo, Ondo State, on August 1, 2026.

The suspects, identified as Adamu Rabiu and Haruna Likita, were arrested during separate operations by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad, Akure, following sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated efforts to unravel those behind the kidnapping.

According to a statement issued by the Command, operatives proceeded to the Oyo State Police Command as part of an intelligence-led operation, leading to the arrest of Rabiu in Ibadan, Oyo State. Likita was subsequently apprehended around Ipele, via Owo, Ondo State, in connection with the same kidnapping incident.

The Police said preliminary investigation had established links between the two suspects and the abduction of Abdullahim. During interrogation, the suspects reportedly made confessional statements admitting their involvement, while their statements and other emerging intelligence are being subjected to further investigation.

The Command said it was expanding the investigation to uncover the wider network, operational structure and possible involvement of other members of the suspected syndicate.

It added that the investigation would continue to pursue all credible leads, with intelligence-driven strategies being deployed to dismantle kidnapping networks operating in the state and prevent criminals from using Ondo as a safe haven.

The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Felix Ohagwu, psc, mnips, mspsp, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Squad for its diligence, courage and commitment to protecting lives and property.

CP Ohagwu assured residents that the Command would sustain intelligence-led operations against kidnappers and other violent criminals, while urging members of the public to provide timely and useful information to the Police.

Residents were also advised to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, movements or activities to the nearest police formation or other appropriate security agencies.