Ondo’s Amotekun Expels 114 Over Unauthorized Forest Encroachment

The Ondo State Security Network, known as Amotekun, has expelled at least 114 individuals, mainly from northern Nigeria, over allegations of illegal entry into the state's forest reserves.

The security outfit carried out the operation as part of ongoing efforts to curb rising security threats, including illegal mining, banditry, and other criminal activities linked to unauthorized forest occupation.

According to reports, the individuals were apprehended during a routine patrol in various forested areas across the state. Amotekun officials stated that the group had no valid documentation or explanation for their presence, prompting their immediate removal.

Ondo State Amotekun Commander, Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the action, emphasizing that the state government remains committed to securing its environment from potential security risks.

"We discovered that these individuals had infiltrated our forests without authorization. Some of them could not explain their mission, while others were found in suspicious circumstances. As part of our mandate to ensure the safety of residents, we had to take necessary action," Adeleye said.

This development follows similar crackdowns on illegal settlers in southwestern Nigeria, where Amotekun has been actively working to prevent security breaches linked to forest encroachments.