The Ondo State Police Command on Monday announced the arrest of a four-member criminal gang suspected of orchestrating a series of armed robberies, kidnappings, and ritual-related crimes in Ogbese, Ondo State.
A statement by the command’s spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, revealed that the suspects were apprehended following credible intelligence indicating that they had visited a location to acquire charms intended to strengthen themselves for criminal activities.
Ayanlade stated that operatives of the Special Weapons and Tactics unit conducted a coordinated operation at the gang’s hideout, leading to their arrest.
“The Ondo State Police Command has successfully apprehended Ifeoluwa Julius and three associates, all residents of Ogbese town, who have been implicated in kidnapping, armed robbery, and ritualistic crimes. Intelligence indicated that the suspects had recently returned from a location where they procured charms to empower themselves for further criminal acts,” Ayanlade explained.
During the operation, officers recovered several items, including an expended cartridge, fetish objects, and a blood-stained cloth.
Subsequent interrogations revealed that the suspects, led by Julius, admitted to engaging in multiple kidnappings and acknowledged their involvement in ritual practices.
Ayanlade added, “The suspects confirmed that their recent trip was intentionally undertaken to enhance their capacity for criminal activities. Their confessions, coupled with the exhibits recovered, underscore their direct involvement in these offences.”
He reaffirming the command’s commitment to ensuring public safety and dismantling criminal networks in Ondo State.
“Our objective is to make the state unsafe for criminal elements while protecting the lives and property of residents,” Ayanlade said.
