Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested four suspected kidnappers in a forest located along the Owo-Ifon axis of the state. The suspects were identified as Friday Monday, Ashimi Wahab, James Odina, Ibrahim Idris, and Prince Areeh.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Olayinka Ayanlade, the suspects were apprehended inside Amurin Forest during a tactical operation aimed at tracking down those responsible for the killing of a police officer, Supol James Ogunleye. He revealed that the operatives were also searching for the slain officer’s service rifle during the operation.

Ayanlade stated that a single-barrel gun loaded with a live cartridge was recovered from the suspects at the time of arrest. The firearm, along with the suspects, is currently in police custody for further investigation.

He further explained that the operation was part of an intensified effort by the command to curb criminal activities, particularly kidnapping and armed robbery, in Ondo’s forest areas. The police spokesperson assured residents that more operations would follow to dismantle criminal networks in the region.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has directed investigators to widen their search to identify other members of the gang and recover the missing rifle of the late officer. He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring justice for the slain officer and restoring peace to affected communities.