Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the neutralization of five suspected kidnappers in a decisive operation along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The criminal gang had earlier abducted three commuters on January 25, 2025, prompting swift intervention by security forces.
According to a statement issued by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Omolola Odutola, the incident occurred around 7:00 PM near Ilishan, along the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode Expressway.
The Area Commander of Sagamu received a distress call from travelers reporting an armed robbery.
Attack on Commuters
Upon arrival at the scene, police operatives discovered that an armed gang had blocked the road using an articulated truck, opening fire indiscriminately at unsuspecting motorists.
In the ensuing chaos, three individuals were kidnapped:
Bolaji Bilesanmi, 65 years old
Olasunkanmi Idowu, 50 years old
Mohammed Salisu, age unknown.
The victims were forcefully taken into the forest from two vehicles: a Honda Pilot (Lagos EKY113GZ) and a Honda Accord (Lagos KJA13QFA).
Police Crackdown on Kidnappers
Following the abduction, the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, directed the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit to track down the criminals. Acting on intelligence, officers launched a covert operation in the early hours of January 29, 2025.
At around 4:00 AM, police operatives located the kidnappers’ hideout. Upon sighting the security team, the suspects opened fire, triggering a fierce gun battle.
During the exchange, five kidnappers were fatally wounded, while others managed to escape with gunshot injuries.
Recovered Items and Rescue Operation
Police officers recovered several items from the criminals’ hideout, including:
One AK-47 rifle
Ten rounds of 5.6mm ammunition
₦5.2 million (suspected ransom money)
Three mobile phones.
The three abducted victims were successfully rescued unharmed, marking a significant victory against criminal elements in Ogun State
Commissioner’s Warning Against Crime
In a stern warning to criminals, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, stated:
“The Commissioner of Police strongly warns against criminal activities, particularly among young individuals seeking financial gain through high-profile crimes.
He reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to an aggressive crackdown on criminals preying on innocent citizens in Ogun State.”
The police have intensified efforts to track down the remaining gang members who fled with injuries.
Security Measures Strengthened
Residents and commuters have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
The Ogun State Police Command has reassured the public of its commitment to ensuring safety on major highways, including the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
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