Amotekun re-arrests ex-convict in Ondo four days after release

Men of the Ondo State Security Network, Amotekun, have re-arrested an ex-convict, Simeon Mathew, just four days after his release from prison for engaging in the sale of illicit drugs and burglary.

The 21-year-old suspect, originally from Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, was apprehended in Akure while attempting to sell cables and hard drugs last Thursday.

Mathew, who claimed to be involved in drug dealing and robbery, expressed desperation for sustenance, stating, "I was arrested some four days after I was released."

The State Commander of Amotekun, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, provided details on the arrest, highlighting the recurring issue of "recycled criminals." He explained that Mathew had left the correctional centre on January 1 and, in less than a week, engaged in burglary again.

Adeleye disclosed that among the 29 suspects arrested across the state were individuals involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms, theft, and violations of the state's anti-grazing law.

Adeleye emphasised the commitment of the security agencies, including Amotekun, the Police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS), to ensuring the safety of lives and properties in Ondo State.

He reassured the public of the state's security during the festive period, debunking rumours of bandit invasions in Ondo communities.

While vowing to make the state uninhabitable for criminals, Adeleye stated that the arrested suspects would be profiled and promptly taken to court. He dismissed misleading information circulating about an alleged overpowering of Amotekun operatives by bandits, labelling it as false and aimed at causing chaos in the state.

Adeleye urged the public to ignore such misinformation and emphasised that the joint security agencies were fully operational in maintaining safety and security in Ondo State. He reaffirmed the commitment of Amotekun to serve the public and provide quality security services, dismissing attempts to discredit the integrity of the organization.