Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, commonly known as Amotekun, have successfully rescued five kidnap victims without paying the N150 million ransom demanded by their abductors.

According to Adetunji Adeleye, the Commander of Amotekun in Ondo State, four of the victims were abducted along the Ore-Ijebu Ode/Lagos expressway, while the fifth victim was rescued from Ifon forest five days after being kidnapped from his residence at Upemen on the Owo-Ikare road.

Adeleye revealed that the kidnappers had demanded ransom payments from the families of the victims before Amotekun operatives intervened and foiled their plans. He further disclosed that Amotekun rangers have been deployed to major forests and strategic locations across the state to curb criminal activities.

"Over 12 armed robbery and kidnapping cases have been foiled by officials of Amotekun in the state, particularly at the Ondo-Ogun states boundary," Adeleye stated.

One of the rescued victims, Ayo Adeyeye, recounted his traumatic experience while in captivity. He revealed that the kidnappers had threatened to kill him and other victims if their ransom demands were not met.

"I was returning home when they stopped us, but my brother ran away before I could stop the motorcycle. They dragged me with them, and we trekked all through the night till the following morning," Adeyeye narrated.

This successful rescue operation highlights the effectiveness of the Amotekun Corps in combating kidnapping and other security challenges in Ondo State. The security outfit, established by the South-Western states of Nigeria to tackle insecurity in the region, continues to make significant strides in ensuring the safety of residents.