Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, arrest kingpin in Ogun

Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command, have neutralized two suspected kidnappers and arrested a suspected kidnapping kingpin alongside a suspected gang member.

The command spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.  

"The operation was carried out following sustained intelligence-led investigations into the kidnapping of three persons abducted on the 11th of May 2026 at Ipojo Area, Iperin, Atan-Ijebu, Ogun State."

"The victims regained their freedom unharmed on the 14th of May 2026 at about 7:30 p.m. after being released by their captors following the payment of an unspecified ransom."

"Following the victims release, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad intensified efforts to track down members of the gang responsible for the abduction."

"Consequently, on the 15th of May 2026 at about 5:00 a.m., operatives acting on credible intelligence stormed the kidnappers’ hideout located along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road axis of Ogun State."

"On sighting the Police operatives, the suspects opened fire, leading to a fierce gun duel."

"The operatives responded professionally, resulting in the neutralization of two of the suspected kidnappers, while other members of the gang escaped into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of bullet injuries."

"Further intelligence-led follow-up operations led to the arrest of the suspected kingpin, Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi ‘M’, and his gang member, Mohammed Bello ‘M’, alongside the recovery of additional incriminating exhibits connected to the criminal operation."

"The corpses of the neutralized suspects have been deposited at a morgue for autopsy in line with standard procedure, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the syndicate."

"Exhibits recovered includes one AK-47 rifle loaded with ten rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, one single-barrel gun, the sum of One Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦1,500,000) suspected to be ransom proceeds, several mobile phones, and a black bag."

"The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commends the operatives for their gallantry, professionalism, and resilience."

"The CP reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across Ogun State."

"Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or criminal activities through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines: Gateway Shield (Toll-Free): 0800 000 9111; Emergency Lines: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, 0708 497 2994."