The Ondo State Police Command has apprehended several suspects in connection with the abduction of Mr. Omoniyi Samuel Eleyinmi, a lecturer at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko. The suspects include Benson Alaba, a 45-year-old commercial motorcyclist, who allegedly aided the kidnapping gang.

According to the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Olusola Ayanlade, Alaba exploited his familiarity with the victim to monitor his movements, which facilitated the abduction on August 4, 2025. The police investigation revealed that Alaba visited the victim’s residence under the pretext of borrowing a mobile phone, which was a ploy to facilitate the abduction.

Further investigations linked Ogungbemi Wasiu, 42, to the operation, who allegedly provided the Itel handset used to contact the victim’s family with a N5 million ransom demand. Five other suspects, who physically carried out the abduction and made direct ransom demands, were also identified and arrested.

The Police Command has clarified that the suspects were apprehended following coordinated follow-up operations based on credible intelligence, dismissing earlier claims that they were arrested while sharing ransom money.

Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, cautioned against the spread of false information and assured that efforts were ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang. He commended the Inspector General of Police for his continuous support and strategic guidance, which has significantly bolstered the Command’s capacity to combat crime.

The lecturer, who was abducted on August 4, 2025, was later released after a reported payment of ransom and is currently receiving treatment at the university health centre.