Police Arrest Four Suspected Kidnappers in Ondo Forest During Manhunt for Slain Officer’s Rifle

Police in Ondo State have arrested four suspected kidnappers during a special operation in a forest along the Owo–Ifon axis, as part of efforts to track down those behind the killing of a police officer, Superintendent James Ogunleye.

The suspects — identified as Friday Monday, Ashimi Wahab, James Odina, Ibrahim Idris, and Prince Areeh — were apprehended inside Amurin Forest by the command’s Tactical Teams.

Police spokesperson, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, confirmed the arrest in a statement on Monday, saying the operation was part of an intensified search for the late officer’s service rifle and his killers.

Firearm Recovered During Operation

“During the operation, the police team recovered one single-barrel gun loaded with a live cartridge from the suspects,” Ayanlade said.

He added that the arrested men and the recovered firearm are now in custody as investigations continue.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, has ordered a broader investigation to identify other members of the gang and recover the missing service weapon.

The Ondo State Police Command has intensified its operations across forest belts in the state, particularly around Owo and Ifon, areas notorious for abductions and bandit attacks.

Authorities say the latest arrests are part of an ongoing crackdown to dismantle kidnapping networks and restore safety in rural communities.