By Ayodele Ayodeji
In a series of recent operations aimed at curbing criminal activities across Osun State, the Western Nigeria Security Network, commonly known as Amotekun Corps, has paraded several individuals suspected of various crimes. Among those apprehended are four ex-convicts, a fake bank manager, and others involved in offences ranging from robbery and fraud to theft of motorcycles and livestock.
Speaking to journalists in Osogbo, Corps Commander Isaac Omoyele detailed the nature of the arrests, explaining that the suspects were apprehended at different locations across the state. He assured the public that thorough investigations would be conducted and that those found guilty would face prosecution.
Omoyele voiced his concern over the recurrent trend of ex-convicts returning to a life of crime, describing it as a “troubling pattern” that poses significant risks to public safety. “We are witnessing cases where individuals who have already served time in correctional facilities reenter society with an even stronger inclination toward crime. Rather than rehabilitation, they often come back more dangerous, complicating the work of security agencies and endangering law-abiding citizens,” he said.
Highlighting specific cases, Omoyele pointed to the arrest of a nursing mother who had been operating as a fake bank official, specializing in defrauding unsuspecting bank customers.
According to the Corps, this suspect would approach individuals within bank premises under the guise of being a bank employee, using this access to obtain sensitive information and carry out fraudulent transactions. Omoyele stated that this tactic had led to several cases of bank fraud, which had become increasingly difficult for victims to identify and report in time.
During the parade, several of the suspects reportedly confessed to the alleged crimes, further solidifying the Corps’ case as they prepare for prosecution.
Among those paraded was Taiwo Badiru, one of the ex-convicts, who reportedly admitted his involvement in a recent theft case, as well as Rasheed Abdulhi, implicated in livestock theft.
Commander Omoyele assured residents that the Amotekun Corps remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of Osun State, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods. “Our commitment is to protect lives and property. We will continue to work relentlessly to ensure that criminals are taken off our streets and that the people of Osun can feel safe in their communities,” he stressed.
The Amotekun Corps has pledged to sustain its efforts against crime, signaling that this wave of arrests is part of a broader strategy to curb crime rates in the state.
