The Ogun State Security Network Agency, known as the Amotekun Corps, has apprehended two suspected cult members and recovered a locally made pistol, a live cartridge, and an axe during an operation in the Ipokia Local Government Area of the state.
The arrested suspects were identified as 22-year-old Raji Selim and 23-year-old Rafiu Saheed. A third suspect, 25-year-old Idowu Ganiu, reportedly escaped arrest and is currently on the run. The trio are believed to be linked to recent cases of kidnapping and killings within the area.
Deputy Commander of the Corps, Tajudeen Bakare, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued in Abeokuta on Thursday. He said operatives apprehended the suspects at about 11 p.m. on Wednesday in the Owotedo area of Ajegunle Idirorko after intercepting them while they were riding an unregistered Bajaj Boxer motorcycle.
Bakare explained that the operation was successful due to multiple intelligence reports and sustained surveillance on the gang, which had been under the agency’s radar for some time. He added that while two suspects were captured, the third, identified as Ganiu, fled the scene.
According to him, operatives recovered several items from the suspects, including a locally fabricated pistol, a live cartridge, an axe, and the unregistered red Bajaj Boxer motorcycle they were riding. He said the gang had been terrorizing residents and was responsible for a series of violent crimes, particularly kidnappings and murders.
Bakare confirmed that the suspects and the recovered exhibits have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation and prosecution.
He urged residents, community leaders, and parents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, emphasizing that collaboration with security agencies remains crucial in curbing crime.