By Grace Chigbu
The Ekiti State Police Command has made significant strides in combating kidnapping activities within the state, as it announced the arrest of eight individuals suspected to be behind the abduction of schoolchildren and their teachers from Apostolic Faith School in Emure-Ekiti. The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Adeniran Akinwale, disclosed this during a press briefing held at the police headquarters in Ado-Ekiti on Friday.
According to Akinwale, the apprehended suspects were involved in a gun duel with police operatives, resulting in the death of one of the gang members. The deceased, identified as Sumo Karami, was allegedly a key figure in the kidnapping operation. Additionally, Akinwale revealed that the gang members were also linked to the abduction of the APC chairman, Hon. Paul Omotoso, in 2023.
“Initial investigation revealed that Sumo Karami and his gang members were responsible for the kidnapping of the pupils and their teachers in Emure-Ekiti on January 29,” stated the Commissioner of Police. He further mentioned that crucial evidence, including the phone used to demand ransom, was recovered from the suspects. Subsequent efforts led to the arrest of two additional gang members in Owo forest, Ondo State.
During the operation, law enforcement officers confiscated several weapons and ammunition from the suspects. These included an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun loaded with five live cartridges, and 21 AK-47 live ammunition rounds, among other items.
In light of these developments, Akinwale urged citizens to collaborate with the police by providing timely and credible information that could aid in the arrest of criminals operating within the state. The successful operation underscores the commitment of the Ekiti State Police Command to ensuring the safety and security of residents, particularly schoolchildren and educators, against the scourge of kidnapping.
