A security guard at a rubber plantation in Edo State, Sule Gende, has been arrested by the Ondo State security outfit, Amotekun Corps, for orchestrating his own abduction and demanding a ₦50 million ransom from his employer.
While parading 22 suspected criminals in Akure, the Ondo State Commander of Amotekun, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, disclosed that two other suspects were apprehended in connection with the crime.
Chief Adeleye explained that Gende, stationed at a rubber plantation in Edo State, planned his "kidnap" and was taken to a hideout in the Southern Senatorial District of Ondo State. Gende stayed in an apartment owned by his accomplice, a 19-year-old friend and fellow security guard, until the suspects were arrested.
The 19-year-old suspect, James Lisbon, admitted to accommodating Gende after being informed that he was traveling to Benue State. Lisbon revealed that Gende supported their feeding by giving him ₦10,000 twice.
An official of the rubber plantation noted that CCTV footage initially showed Gende being "kidnapped" by gunmen. The abductors later contacted the company, demanding ₦50 million for his release. After negotiations, the demand was reduced to ₦15 million.
When efforts to locate the suspects by the Department of State Services (DSS) stalled, the company reached out to Amotekun Corps in Ondo State, which successfully tracked and arrested the suspects at their hideout.
Chief Adeleye stated that in the spirit of collaboration, the suspects would be handed over to the DSS office in Edo State to complete their trial, ensuring due process and effective prosecution.
Meanwhile, the Amotekun Corps has deployed 1,200 personnel to black spots and other strategic locations across the 18 local government areas in Ondo State to ensure safety during the festive season.
Adeleye reassured residents and visitors of enhanced security measures, noting the corps' collaboration with other security agencies to prevent crimes.
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He said, "What you will observe in a couple of days from now is the presence of Amotekun personnel at strategic locations and black spots across the 18 local governments."
The commander also announced the commencement of the annual 24/7 joint border patrol between Ondo and Osun States to ensure the safety of travelers during the holidays.
"Amotekun will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of lives and property throughout this yuletide period," Adeleye affirmed.
