Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, Amotekun, have intercepted a coal-laden truck conveying 38 passengers into Akure, the Ondo State capital, during a routine security operation.
The interception occurred at the Cathedral area of Akure metropolis in Akure South Local Government Area, where the passengers were arrested by Amotekun operatives.
Confirming the development on Monday, the Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, said the suspects were mostly youths aged between 20 and 27 and were being conveyed in a brand-new Mercedes-Benz truck with registration number GML 335 XR Jigawa.
Adeleye said preliminary interrogation raised suspicion as the passengers could not clearly explain their destination or purpose of travel.
“We are profiling all of them thoroughly. Anyone found culpable after investigations will face the full weight of the law, while those cleared will be returned to their states of origin,” he said.
He added that the location where the truck driver claimed to have picked up the passengers was an area considered prone to extremist activities, further heightening security concerns.
Security sources disclosed that the suspects claimed they were unaware they had already entered Ondo State at the time of their arrest. They reportedly told operatives they were travelling to meet relatives in the state but failed to provide verifiable addresses or contact details.
One of the passengers was allegedly found with a uniform bearing the inscription “Commander”, along with some charms. He reportedly claimed to be a hunter but could not give a clear account of his destination after departing Gombe State.
The 20-year-old driver of the truck and his 19-year-old conductor told Amotekun operatives that they picked up the passengers along the route and had no prior relationship with them.
Investigations are ongoing as Amotekun continues profiling the suspects to determine their identities and mission in Ondo State.
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