The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a total of 286 suspects for various criminal offences between January and March 2026, Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has disclosed.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing in Akure, the Commissioner said the arrests were made through intelligence-led operations, sustained patrols, coordinated tactical deployments and strong community collaboration across the state.
According to him, the figure cuts across major crimes including kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, rape, cultism and unlawful possession of firearms.
“From January 1st till date, the Command has arrested a total of 286 suspects for various offences,” CP Lawal stated.
“This includes 30 for kidnapping, 10 for murder and homicide, 15 for unlawful possession of firearms, 17 for armed robbery, five for rape and defilement, 41 for cult-related offences, and 168 for other crimes.”
The Police Commissioner said the statistics reflect measurable progress in ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities and dismantle syndicates operating within Ondo State.
“We have intensified intelligence-driven policing and proactive strategies to ensure that criminal networks are disrupted and those involved are brought to justice,” he said.
Beyond arrests, the Command also recorded significant recoveries within the period under review. CP Lawal revealed that 15 firearms and 35 rounds of ammunition were recovered, alongside six motor vehicles and 11 motorcycles linked to criminal operations. Eight victims were also rescued during various operations.
He cited recent breakthroughs, including the arrest of 11 suspects linked to the abduction of worshippers at a church in Uso, the busting of a suspected kidnapping syndicate in Akure with 10 arrests and recovery of ransom money, as well as multiple arrests connected to violent attacks in Idanre.
“The Command remains resolute in consolidating these gains,” he said. “Ongoing assessments and data-driven interventions will continue to guide our operational approach in maintaining law and order across the state.”
While acknowledging recent “pockets of criminal activities” in some areas, CP Lawal assured residents that strategic deployments and enhanced surveillance had led to significant containment.
He called on residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with timely and credible information.
“The security of lives and property is a collective responsibility,” he added. “We urge members of the public to cooperate with the Police and report suspicious activities promptly. The Command will continue to intensify its operational strategies to ensure sustained peace and security across Ondo State.”
