The Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Wednesday, raised the concern over illegal mining, banditry, kidnapping and other vices in the Oke-Ogun area in particular and the state in general.
He made this known while playing host to the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Department and South West zone, Abiodun Alabi, at the Conference Hall of the Secretary to the State Government, Governor’s Office, Agodi, Ibadan.
Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, expressed concern over the menace in the region and other parts of the state.
Makinde said there were reported cases of kidnap on the Igbeti-Igboho road on Wednesday, while a driver of an unspecified vehicle was reportedly killed on the same route a while ago.
He said while the illegal miners were depleting the resources of the state through nefarious acts, the kidnappers and perpetrators of other acts were making the affected areas unsafe for the dwellers.
“The perpetrators of the heinous act have infiltrated the forest in the northern part of the state.
They have turned the forest into their haven, where they launch attacks at the dwellers and passersby.
“The long forest berth in the Oke-Ogun area is where reported cases of kidnapping/abduction take place. We are calling on the police to intensify efforts at arresting the situation.
“Also, the police authorities should provide necessary logistics for the mobile police station at Ago Are for optimal performance”, he said.
Speaking earlier, Alabi said his visit aimed at interfacing with the police and the stakeholders on the security challenge and proffering solutions.
At the state police command headquarters at Eleyele, the DIG held a meeting with the critical stakeholders and stressed the need for collaboration.
“The goal of zero tolerance for crimes and criminalities is achievable. I want to urge you all to cooperate with the police and provide useful information”, he said.
