The Ogun State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping after operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit neutralised two suspected kidnappers and arrested an alleged gang kingpin during a fierce gun battle along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road axis.
The intelligence-led operation also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle loaded with 10 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, a single-barrel gun, ₦1.5 million suspected to be ransom proceeds, several mobile phones, and a black bag believed to have been used by the criminal gang.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed sustained investigations into the abduction of three persons kidnapped on May 11, 2026, at the Ipojo area of Iperin in Ogun State.
The victims were reportedly released unharmed on May 14 after an undisclosed ransom was paid.
Following their release, detectives intensified efforts to track down the kidnappers, leading operatives to the gang’s suspected hideout along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan corridor in the early hours of May 15.
Police said the suspects opened fire immediately they sighted officers, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“The operatives responded professionally, resulting in the neutralisation of two of the suspected kidnappers, while other members of the gang escaped into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of bullet injuries,” the statement said.
Further follow-up operations later led to the arrest of the suspected gang leader, identified as Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi, alongside another suspect, Mohammed Bello.
Additional incriminating items linked to the syndicate were also recovered during the operation.
The bodies of the two deceased suspects have been deposited at a morgue for autopsy, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest fleeing gang members.
The Ogun State Police Command said investigations are continuing to uncover the full network of the kidnapping syndicate and ensure all arrested suspects are prosecuted.
Commending the operatives for their bravery and professionalism, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and violent crimes across the state.
Residents were also urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines and the Gateway Shield toll-free number.
