Police foil N14m ransom payment, rescue victim in Ondo

The Ondo State Police Command has successfully rescued a kidnap victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, and arrested 12 suspects linked to various crimes, including kidnapping, robbery, cultism, and theft.

Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Afolabi, confirmed the development during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Akure on Saturday, May 17, 2025.

He credited the breakthrough to effective intelligence gathering by the command.

Among the arrested suspects are Babuga Muhammed, Ibrahim Uma, Paul Osanyinduro, Abubakar Bamoh, Olaoluwa Olootu, Aliu Raymond, Yahaya, Hasminu Jibirimi, Hammed Olabode, and Adegoke Olayemi.

Babuga Muhammed, who was directly involved in the abduction of Ogunniyi, was arrested during a joint tactical operation.

According to CP Afolabi, the kidnappers had demanded a N14 million ransom for Semiu’s release.

However, acting on intelligence, a combined team of police operatives and local hunters from Ikare launched an ambush near Supare Mine in Akoko North-East Local Government Area, identified as a suspected meeting point for the abductors.

“During the interception, the suspects engaged our operatives in a fierce gun duel. Several of them sustained serious gunshot wounds, and one suspect, Babuga Muhammed from Iseyin, Oyo State, was apprehended,” Afolabi said.

He added that the victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, was rescued alive and unhurt, with no ransom paid.

The suspect is currently receiving treatment for gunshot injuries at the State Specialist Hospital, while security agencies continue efforts to track down the fleeing accomplices.

CP Afolabi further disclosed that some of the other arrested suspects had confessed to their involvement in the crimes.

He urged residents to stay alert, report suspicious activities, and support law enforcement efforts.

“Together, we can and will build a safer Ondo State,” he said. “I want to assure the good people of this state that the police command under my leadership remains committed to professionalism, fairness, and the protection of lives and property.”