Ekiti Kidnapping: Police Parade Suspects
The Ekiti State Police Command recently achieved a significant breakthrough by arresting eight members of a kidnapping syndicate and neutralizing one. The operation, led by the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), targeted criminals responsible for the killing of two traditional rulers in Ikole-Ekiti and the kidnapping of school children and teachers in Emure-Ekiti.
The investigation began on February 8, 2024, with the arrest of Abubakar Aliyu (a.k.a Smallie), who was spying on Expatriates in Dairy Farmland, Ikun-Ekiti. Further arrests followed, including two vigilante members sent by the gang leader, Sumo Karami, to secure Smallie’s release. Mohammed Bashiru, leader of Miyetti Allah vigilante in Oro-Ago, Kwara State, was also apprehended, revealing connections to the kidnapping gang.
The gang, led by Sumo Karami, was linked to the January 29, 2024, kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Emure-Ekiti. Subsequent arrests in Owo forest, Ondo State, and Ibadan, Oyo State, uncovered more members, including Kenneth Ugwu, who confessed to his involvement.
A gun duel during a raid in Agric Reserved Forest resulted in the neutralization of one gang member (Ayuba) and the capture of Smallie, with other members escaping.
During the Press Briefing on Friday in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, the Commissioner of Police, Adeniran Akinwale, said one of the suspects was killed during a gun battle with policemen.
Recalled that Hon Paul Omotosho was kidnapped in 2023 before he was released through the intervention of security outfits and the state Government.
The CP said the command will not rest until the state is rid of criminal activities in order to maintain peace and order.
The syndicate’s criminal activities included the kidnapping of the APC Chairman, Ekiti State, Paul Omotosho, on July 8, 2023, and the abduction of Mr. and Mrs. Awoniyi along Ikere/Itaogbolu road in January.
Additionally, they were responsible for the kidnapping of teachers and pupils at Apostolic Faith Secondary School, Emure-Ekiti, on January 29, 2024.
COMMENTS