In a recent operation, the Osun State Security Network Agency, commonly known as Amotekun Corps, has made significant arrests, including a 50-year-old man suspected of attempted kidnapping. The suspect, Najeemdeen Shola Bankole Adeyemi, allegedly targeted a woman he met on Facebook, leading to his arrest in Osogbo.
On September 15, 2024, Rodiat Adenike AbdulRazak, a resident of Osogbo, reported to Amotekun that she had met a man on Facebook who promised to visit her from Lagos. When they arranged to meet at a local restaurant, Adeyemi lured her into a conversation before stylishly taking her Android phone and escaping.
Amotekun operatives acted swiftly upon receiving the complaint. They tracked Adeyemi down to Osogbo, where he was arrested while attempting to steal another phone from a different victim. During interrogation, Adeyemi confessed to using a fake Facebook account to trick unsuspecting individuals.
Commander Isaac Omoyele, during a press briefing, warned young women to be cautious when interacting with people online. He emphasized the importance of safety and vigilance in online friendships. Following his arrest, Adeyemi is set to be transferred to the Nigeria Police for prosecution.
In addition to the kidnapping case, the Amotekun Corps also apprehended 30-year-old Elizabeth Ako for her involvement in currency counterfeiting. On September 16, 2024, Elizabeth was arrested at the Sabo area of Ilesa while attempting to use counterfeit N1,000 notes to purchase goods from local vendors.
During her interrogation, Elizabeth confessed to being involved in this illegal activity for a long time. She revealed that she had been purchasing fake currency from a woman in Abuja, paying 50,000 Naira to receive 200,000 Naira in counterfeit bills. This admission highlights the ongoing issue of counterfeit currency in the region, posing a threat to local businesses and the economy.
The press briefing also showcased several other arrests made by Amotekun in recent weeks:
Olaniyan Afeez, 37 years old, was arrested for his involvement in motorcycle snatching and murder. He has a history of violent crimes, raising concerns among the community.
Olatinwo Quy, a 19-year-old, was caught stealing a motorcycle in Apomu, Isokan local government area.
Tajudeen Riliwan, 29 years old and an ex-convict, was apprehended for stealing ceiling fans from a mosque in Osogbo.
Laisi Kazeem, 20, was repeatedly stealing transformer cables that supply electricity to parts of Ila-Odo town.
Additionally, two ex-convicts, Babatunde Aderemi, 45, and Olaniyan Afeez, were arrested for theft in Ikirun. In the Iwo local government area, Adegboye Glory, 19, and Bidemi Adebayo, 30, were apprehended for burglary and theft.
The recent actions taken by Osun Amotekun Corps underscore the ongoing fight against crime in Osun State. The arrests of individuals involved in kidnapping, counterfeiting, and various thefts serve as a reminder of the importance of community safety and vigilance. Amotekun Corps continues to encourage citizens to report suspicious activities and protect themselves, particularly when engaging with others online. As the agency works closely with the Nigeria Police, it aims to ensure that these criminals face justice, contributing to a safer environment for all residents.
This detailed overview highlights the significant efforts of the Osun Amotekun Corps in combating crime, emphasizing the importance of safety in both physical and online interactions. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior to authorities to help keep their neighborhoods safe.
