The Amotekun Corps has deployed over 2,000 personnel across Southwest Nigeria to tackle the growing threat of bandits and other criminal elements in the region’s forests. Ogun and Osun States lead the effort with plans to recruit 1,000 operatives each, while Oyo State recently deployed 480 forest rangers.
Amotekun commanders in the region confirmed the initiative as a response to increased crime rates, including kidnappings and illicit activities linked to bandits infiltrating from the Sahel region. The operation aims to strengthen the Southwest Security Network, with additional manpower and advanced tracking technology under consideration to boost efficiency.
Ondo State Amotekun Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, emphasized the deployment of forest rangers to evict bandits and reiterated the corps’ resolve to keep criminals out of the state’s forests. Similarly, Ogun State Commander, Brig. Gen. Alade Adedigba (retd.), disclosed plans to recruit 1,000 more operatives under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s directive to enhance security operations.
In Osun State, Commander Adekunle Omoyele announced an impending recruitment drive for 1,000 additional personnel, complementing the existing 320 operatives. He urged authorities to equip Amotekun with sophisticated arms to match the firepower of criminals.
Oyo State Commander Col. Olayinka Olayanju (retd.) highlighted the deployment of forest rangers across 25 local government areas to combat illegal activities. Collaboration with community-based security groups and traditional leaders has also been intensified for surveillance and intelligence gathering.
Efforts in Ekiti State include collaboration between Amotekun, Agro Rangers, and the Peace Corps, alongside the use of technology and farm security task forces. The state’s Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s proactive measures, including partnerships with military and police forces to enhance security.
Amotekun commanders across the Southwest have consistently sought approval for operatives to bear sophisticated arms. They argue that amendments to national laws are necessary to authorize this. Meanwhile, states like Ondo and Ekiti are investing in technology and local intelligence to sustain the fight against crime.
These efforts reflect a coordinated regional strategy to safeguard lives and properties in the Southwest against increasing criminal threats.
Source: punch
