One die as SSS, Police rescue Regent, others in Ondo

A combined team of men of the State Security Service, and policemen from the Ondo State Command on Tuesday rescued the Regent of Akungba-Akoko, Princess Oluwatoyin Omosowon, after two weeks of captivity in the hands of kidnappers. The SSS Director in Ondo State, Christian Ojobor, who led the team of security
men to the governor’s office, said the leader of the gang of kidnappers died during the operation, while two others were arrested. While handing over the Regent to Governor Olusegun Mimiko, Mr. Ojobor vowed that the state would no longer be a safe haven for criminals and kidnappers. The operation also saw the rescue of the Regent’s driver Aliu Jelili, a corps member, Azubike Ijeoma, an Indian, Alex John Thekinathy and his orderly Obute Sunday. Although the monarch was abducted near Owo in Ondo State on June 2, she was rescued in Edo State. Responding, Mr. Mimiko expressed delight for the successful operation. He said, “Stiffer penalty awaits anybody caught in the act of kidnapping and other related offences.” According to him, there is already an existing law against kidnapping in the state and any amendment needed to make it harder would be considered. The governor also congratulated the people of Akungba Akoko for maintaining the peace during their trying period. He promised that those arrested in connection with the crime “will be made to face the full wrath of the law.”