Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria — Security agencies in southwestern Nigeria have arrested 99 suspects during a coordinated crackdown on criminal activities across Ondo State.
Okay News reports that the operation was carried out on Sunday by multiple security organisations working together to target locations believed to be used by criminal groups.
According to a statement released on Monday, March 9, 2026, by Deputy Superintendent of Police Abayomi Jimoh, spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force Ondo State Command in southern Nigeria, the raid involved several national and state security institutions.
These included the Nigeria Police Force Ondo State Command, the 32 Brigade Artillery of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Ondo State Command, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps.
Jimoh explained that the operation was based on intelligence reports and focused on areas previously identified as crime hotspots across the state.
“The intelligence-led operation targeted identified criminal hideouts, black spots, and flashpoints across several parts of the state known for criminal activities.
“The coordinated operation resulted in the arrest of 99 suspects linked to offences such as armed robbery, burglary, theft, cultism, and other related crimes.
“During the operation, several items suspected to have been used for criminal activities, as well as suspected stolen properties and other incriminating exhibits, were recovered from the suspects.
“The arrested individuals are currently undergoing screening and profiling, while those found culpable will be charged to court accordingly,” he said.
Ondo State is located in the southwestern region of Nigeria and has recently experienced a series of security challenges ranging from armed robbery to kidnappings, prompting intensified collaboration among security agencies.
The Commissioner of Police for the Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, praised the officers and security personnel who participated in the joint operation.
According to Jimoh, the police chief stressed that cooperation among security organisations remains essential in combating crime within the state.
“The CP further reiterates the command’s unwavering commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven policing and joint security operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks and maintaining law and order in the state.
“Lawal, once again, warns criminal elements to desist from engaging in unlawful activities within the state, stressing that Ondo State will not serve as a safe haven for criminals.
“Security agencies will continue to intensify operations to identify, track, and decisively deal with offenders, regardless of where they operate or attempt to hide,” the spokesperson said.
Authorities also appealed to residents to assist security services by providing timely and credible information about suspicious activities.
“Community cooperation remains vital in sustaining the prevailing peace and security in the state.
“The command assures the public that no effort will be spared in ensuring that all perpetrators of crime are brought to justice,” he said.
The police command recently carried out another operation linked to a violent incident earlier in the year. On Friday, March 6, 2026, authorities confirmed the arrest of four suspected kidnappers connected to an attack along Liberty Avenue in Ilu-Abo, a community in Ondo State.
The January 26 incident led to the death of a resident, John Ofuduwa, and the abduction of a woman identified as Oladeinde Tomilola. Security officials later confirmed that the abducted woman was eventually released.
Security agencies say operations like the latest raid will continue as part of wider efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating across Ondo State.
