The Ondo State Security Network Agency, also known as the Amotekun Corps, has apprehended a 28-member syndicate involved in defrauding unsuspecting individuals under the guise of processing visas for travel to the United States and Australia.
Speaking in Akure on Thursday, the Corps Commandant, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, revealed that the group lured victims by promising to secure visas for them. They then extorted between $1,500 and $2,000 per person and, in some cases, held them captive.
Adeleye explained that victims were taken to a hideout in Oda, Akure, and were only released if they could bring in new individuals to be kidnapped. However, Amotekun’s intelligence unit uncovered the scheme, leading to the arrest of 28 suspects and the rescue of several victims.
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He urged young people to verify the credibility of travel agents before engaging in visa applications, warning that the syndicate had scammed thousands. The criminal operation was allegedly coordinated by a Ghanaian national based in Akure, who remains at large. Adeleye expressed confidence that law enforcement would eventually apprehend him.
Encouraging the youth to explore legitimate opportunities within Nigeria, he highlighted the commitment of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration to ensuring security and urged young people to consider agricultural ventures.
In a separate operation, Amotekun arrested 33 individuals on charges including kidnapping, cultism, attempted murder, theft, and violations of the state’s ban on open grazing.
Adeleye reiterated the restriction on motorcycle operations between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m., except for essential services, stating that many crimes were linked to motorcyclists. He warned that the corps would intensify efforts to crack down on violators and unregistered vehicles.
He urged residents to remain law-abiding and report suspicious activities to the corps via 08079999989.
