The Chairman of Okemesi/Ido-Ile Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Ajibade Sunday Owolabi, has directed security agencies to intensify efforts in clearing out criminals and kidnappers hiding in the forests within the council’s jurisdiction.
Speaking during a briefing with security operatives involved in a recent 3-day bush combing exercise, Hon. Ajibade emphasized the need to rid the area of criminal elements, including kidnappers and dangerous herdsmen, who have been terrorizing residents and farmers.
The operation extended to boundary areas in Ila Orangun, Imesi Ile, and Esa Oke in Osun and Ekiti States.
The council chairman noted that the criminals had been using the forests as hideouts to launch attacks, including the recent abduction of an elderly woman in Okemesi-Ekiti and attacks on farmers on their farmlands.
He commended the security operatives for their dedication and noted that the deployment of strategic crime-fighting measures has begun yielding positive results in restoring peace to the area. He further stressed the importance of regular forest surveillance to completely eradicate these threats.
Hon. Ajibade urged the security agencies to remain professional in their conduct, ensuring that innocent farmers and residents are not harassed during the operations.
The council boss also called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to collaborate with the security agencies in ensuring the success of their operation.