Ondo State Police have arraigned two suspected kidnappers after nine victims identified them in connection with violent crimes across several communities
The Ondo State Police Command has arraigned two suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate, identified as Bello Denge and Umar Isah, after they were positively identified by nine of their alleged victims.
The suspects were brought before the court following investigations and identification procedures conducted at the Command Headquarters.
Police spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, noting that the victims independently identified the suspects as active participants in a series of abductions across parts of the state.
The affected communities include Iluabo, Eleyowo, Iju-Itaogbolu, and Pelebe, where residents had reportedly lived under fear due to repeated kidnapping incidents.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly targeted vulnerable individuals, particularly farmers working in remote areas, disrupting economic and social activities in the affected communities.
The statement further disclosed that Bello Denge, 30, and Umar Isah, 25, were formally charged to court on April 30, 2026, following the conclusion of investigations.
They were subsequently remanded at the Nigeria Correctional Service facility in Olokuta pending further legal proceedings.
“The suspects were positively identified by no fewer than nine victims of kidnapping during an identification process conducted at the Command Headquarters,” the statement read.
Police said the arrests followed intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks responsible for kidnapping and violent crimes in the state.
The Command emphasised that prosecuting suspects remains a key part of ensuring justice, accountability, and deterrence against future criminal activity.
It added that the legal process also helps restore public confidence in the criminal justice system while providing victims the opportunity to seek redress.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to sustained operations against kidnapping syndicates and other violent criminal groups across Ondo State.
