30 Ondo kidnappers prosecuted in first half of the year – Police

The Ondo State Police Command said it had arrested and prosecuted no fewer than 30 confirmed kidnap suspects while hundreds of armed robbery and other criminal suspects were nabbed in the first half of 2025.

According to a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the command, Mr Olayinka Ayanlade, on Sunday, the period under review was under the leadership of the outgoing Commissioner of Police, Mr Wilfred Afolabi.

Afolabi, the statement confirmed, has been redeployed from the state following the directive of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

“If anything, his (Afolabi’s) tenure in Ondo State has been marked by notable achievements, including the arrest and prosecution of over 30 confirmed kidnappers, the dismantling of 83 cult gangs, and the apprehension of numerous armed robbers and car snatchers. These successes are a testament to his dedication, effectiveness, and leadership,” the PPRO stated.

He however denied a report that Afolabi was removed following the ‘Take it back’ movement protest led by a human rights activist, Mr Omowole Sowore, held in Akure, the state capital on June 12.

Ayanlade said, “CP Wilfred Afolabi, a seasoned and disciplined officer, with over three decades of meritorious service, understands the dynamics of the Nigeria Police Force, where transfers and redeployments are a routine part of service. He affirms that every appointment or redeployment comes from God, and if it was not divinely sanctioned, he would not have been privileged to serve in the capacity he did.