The Ondo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps, has arrested 38 men found inside a truck suspected to have travelled from northern Nigeria. The interception took place on Sunday in Akure, the state capital.
The passengers were discovered in a brand-new Mercedes-Benz truck bearing registration number Jigawa GML 335 XR. Security operatives raised concerns after the occupants failed to provide a clear destination within the state.
According to a statement from Ondo Amotekun Commander Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, the arrest occurred around the Cathedral area of Akure, and the suspects were immediately taken in for questioning. Adeleye noted that the location where the driver claimed to have picked up the passengers is known to be prone to extremist activities.
All suspects are to undergo thorough profiling, with those found culpable prosecuted, while others will be returned to their states of origin. The corps assured residents that the situation is under control and that security agencies are actively monitoring developments.
This comes amidst recent reports of heightened security concerns across the country, including attacks and kidnappings in states such as Niger, Borno, Kaduna, and Zamfara. Analysts say such incidents have heightened vigilance by regional security networks like Amotekun, particularly regarding movements of large groups or suspicious vehicles.
Security agencies across the southwest have reportedly increased patrols and monitoring of transit routes, following intelligence reports of potential criminal or extremist activity in border and urban areas.