Below: The underground cell
The Ondo State Police Command has uncovered a suspected kidnappers’ den concealed within an abandoned, uncompleted building in Epinmi Akoko, located in Akoko South East Local Government Area of the state.
Two suspects, identified as Arohunmolase Idowu and Bada Tosin, were arrested in connection with the hideout, which features a deep pit and iron-reinforced compartments believed to have been used to detain victims while ransoms were demanded.
According to police reports, the discovery followed credible intelligence and a coordinated security operation. The breakthrough came after members of the Epinmi Vigilante Group apprehended Idowu in the early hours of June 18, after observing him behaving suspiciously in the area.
In a statement released on Thursday, June 19, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola confirmed the arrests and described the operation.
“Based on credible intelligence at about 12:30 am on June 18, 2025, the Epinmi Vigilante Group apprehended one Arohunmolase Idowu, 25, of No. 14 Araromi Isalu Quarters, Epinmi Akoko, who was loitering suspiciously and failed to provide a reasonable explanation for his movement,” the statement read.
Following his interrogation, a joint police team, along with other security agencies, launched a follow-up operation that led to the arrest of 26-year-old Bada Tosin. The suspects later directed officers to the hidden den deep within the bush.
A disturbing element of the discovery was a large pit believed to have been used as a holding cell for abducted victims.
Recovered from the site were two locally-made dane guns, charms, four cutlasses, four axes, and various other dangerous weapons.
The police confirmed that both suspects and the recovered exhibits have been handed over to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for further investigation. DSP Olushola assured the public that updates would follow as the probe continues.
