The arrest of 39 suspected terrorists by the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun, has raised major security concerns across the Southwest, especially following reports that the suspects fled Sokoto State after the Christmas Day U.S. military airstrikes targeting terrorist camps in Nigeria’s North‑West.
🔥 Why They Fled Sokoto
According to Amotekun Commander Chief Adetunji Adeleye, the suspects claimed they escaped from Sokoto after intense military pressure following the U.S. airstrikes that targeted terrorist hideouts and logistics hubs.
The strikes—carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities—were aimed at degrading the operational capacity of terror groups operating in the region.
Security sources say the airstrikes disrupted several camps, forcing surviving fighters to scatter into neighboring states.
🌲 Why They Ended Up in Ondo Forests
Adeleye explained that the suspects moved southward and settled in thick forest reserves in Ondo State, which have historically been used by:
- Kidnappers
- Illegal miners
- Cattle rustlers
- Bandit cells fleeing military operations
Ondo’s forests connect to Ekiti, Osun, Ogun, and Edo, making them strategic hideouts for criminal networks.
Adeleye said the sudden influx of unfamiliar groups into the forests triggered red flags, prompting coordinated border patrol operations.
🚨 Large-Scale Security Sweep
The 39 suspected terrorists were part of a broader operation in which 100 suspects were arrested across the state.
Of these, 61 were paraded, while others remain under investigation.
Breakdown of the arrests:
- 39 suspected terrorists fleeing Sokoto
- 50 arrested for “breaking of law and order”
- 6 arrested for kidnapping‑related offenses
- 2 arrested for violating anti‑open grazing laws
- 3 arrested for rape and gender‑based crimes
The suspects are aged 18 to 45, according to Amotekun.
🧾 Profiling and Possible Repatriation
Adeleye said the 39 terror suspects are still undergoing profiling, which includes:
- Identity verification
- Links to known terror cells
- Forensic examination of their phones
- Background checks with northern security agencies
Those found innocent may be returned to their home states, while anyone found with weapons, charms, or incriminating materials will be prosecuted.
🛑 Forest Permit Policy
Adeleye emphasized that the Ondo State Government has made it mandatory for anyone living or working in forest areas to obtain official permits.
This policy was introduced after repeated kidnappings and killings linked to forest‑based criminal groups.
The commander said the suspects had no permits, raising further suspicion.
🤝 Regional Security Collaboration
Adeleye highlighted strong cooperation between Amotekun units across Southwest states:
- Ekiti–Ondo
- Osun–Ondo
- Ogun–Ondo
This collaboration has led to multiple arrests, including suspects tracked across state borders and brought back from Ogun State.
⚖️ Rape and Gender‑Based Violence Cases
Among the suspects paraded were three men arrested for rape in the Isinkan area of Akure:
- Daniel Ojo, 19
- Usman, 33
- Bejide, 41
They are accused of sexually assaulting women in separate incidents.
🗣️ Government Reaction
Adeleye thanked Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for supporting Amotekun operations and praised the synergy among:
- Police
- Civil Defence
- Army
- DSS
- Local vigilantes
- Community informants
He said public cooperation has been crucial in tracking suspicious movements.
