Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has intercepted and returned 114 persons found wandering inside forests.
The suspects were said to have not been able to explain what they were doing inside the forests after they were dropped off by two trucks.
Ondo Amotekun Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, who spoke in Akure, the state capital, said the suspects dispersed in the forests.
According to him, “In the last few weeks, we have been engaged in running battles with strangers infiltrating our forests in Ondo State. The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has directed that individuals without legitimate business in the deep forests should be evacuated and sent back.”
“Upon profiling them, it was discovered that all but three had no knowledge of where they were being taken. They had no idea. Their masters simply sent them into the forest to await further directives.The governor has, therefore, ordered their immediate return. Yes, there is freedom of movement in Nigeria, but it must be purposeful.
“Over 100 young men, without any clear purpose or destination, were intercepted at various points. What would they become if left unchecked? Criminals! We have been battling kidnappers and armed robbers across the state, and we are resolute in ridding Ondo of such elements. If you have no legitimate reason to be in our forests, what exactly are you doing there?
“If you are not adding value to Ondo State, do not bring us problems,” Adeleye emphasised and to criminals, let this serve as a final warning; there is no hiding place for you here.”
