Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, have rescued two victims abducted a few days ago in the state.

The victims, rescued after a 96-hour search in the forest, were kidnapped by gunmen about six days ago along Itagbolu Road in Akure North Local Council of the state.

According to the Amotekun commander in the state, Adetunji Adeleye, who disclosed this at the weekend while parading some suspected criminals at the corps headquarters, the victims were rescued unhurt following their refusal to pay the N50 million ransom demanded by the abductors.

Adeleye commended the families of the victims for their cooperation during the operation and emphasised the corps’ zero-tolerance for ransom payments.

He stated: “Thankfully, most kidnap cases in the past two months have been resolved without any payment.

“More than celebrating the arrest of criminals, we are celebrating the recovery of life and property. Our operations in the past week have led to a reduction in cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, burglary and cult-related activities.”

The Amotekun chief also revealed that the corps also recovered stolen goods and electronics worth over N300 million after busting a theft syndicate specialising in stolen phones and gadgets. Adeleye explained that the goods were stolen in Lagos and transported to Ondo for sale.

“One of the suspects repackaged the items into an empty carton during the journey, and was discovered while the vehicle was refuelling. The goods belonged to a licensed electronics dealer in Ondo and will be returned to the owner after the court had processed the necessary documents.

“Others paraded along with the syndicate and two kidnap suspects included a local gang leader arrested after evading capture for six months, as well as a repeat offender who jumped bail and fled to Kano but was rearrested and brought back, and a suspect involved in violent clashes with herders,” he added.