Operatives of Ondo State Police Command have arrested two commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as okada riders, who have been working as spies for kidnappers in the state.

The suspects, identified as Lekan Temitope and Komolafe Sunday who were paraded at the police headquarters in Akure, the state capital, also confessed to providing logistics support to kidnappers.

Addressing newsmen on the successes recorded in tackling incessant kidnappings in the state, the state’s Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi explained that the suspects helped the kidnappers get food for their victims and received ransoms.

The police boss added that the confession of the duo led to the arrest of two suspected kidnappers, Umaru Abubakar and Yusuf Ahmadu, in Akunu-Akoko. Also, the Police have arrested two suspected kidnappers, Ridwan Salisu, 45, and Umar Isyaku, 19, following an intense intelligence gathering.

The suspects, who claimed to be Point of Sale (POS) business operators, however, could not explain how they had over N3 million in their possession. CP further disclosed that the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has approved technical equipment for the state to tackle kidnappings and other crimes. He revealed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has also promised to provide necessary equipment and logistics to win the war against kidnappers.

“With these combined, we will have total and complete victory over the kidnappers. The governor feels disturbed and concerned about security challenges. We presented what we need to get results. He confirmed he will make them available. He has made some available.

“We have made many arrests. We are still investigating. There is a need for hash laws to deal with security challenges of kidnappings. Kidnappers have become merciless. I subscribe to passing a bill to make the punishment harsher,” he said.