The Ekiti State Police Command, in collaboration with other security agencies and non-state actors, has established a Special Joint Task Force to carry out bush combing operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements hiding in forests across the state.

This was disclosed in a statement yesterday by the command’s spokesperson, Mr Abutu Sunday, who described the move as a proactive step to safeguard lives and property in the state. He said the operation follows increasing concerns over the presence of criminals, including kidnappers, suspected to be camping in the region’s bushes.

The initiative comes amid heightened security concerns after the abduction of Afenifere Youth Leader, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, by suspected Fulani herdsmen on February 17, 2025, in Ondo State while travelling to Abuja. Following his release, Ojajuni had warned that criminal elements had infiltrated the South-West’s forests and called for urgent government action.

In response, South-West governors recently held a meeting to strengthen regional security and pledged joint efforts to combat rising threats. Abutu noted that the Ekiti Police Command is also working closely with neighbouring state commands on coordinated bush combing operations and intelligence sharing.

“The State Government and the Ekiti State Police Command, in synergy with other security agencies, including non-state actors, have set up a Special Joint Task Force for bush combing operations across the state,” he stated.

He added that Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and Tactical and Intelligence Unit Commanders have been directed to maintain regular bush combing, visibility policing, and intelligence gathering.

Abutu urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities, assuring that the police remain committed to maintaining Ekiti’s reputation as one of the most secure states in the country.