The Ogun State Police Command has rescued three kidnapped victims and eliminated five suspected kidnappers in a shootout along the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode Expressway.
According to a statement by Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command, the incident unfolded following a distress call reporting a robbery and kidnapping near the Ilisan Remo corridor of the expressway late Saturday evening.
The victims, identified as Bolaji Bilesanmi (65), Olasunkanmi Idowu (50), and Mohammed Salisu, were abducted after gunmen ambushed their vehicles—a Honda Pilot (Lagos EKY113GZ) and a Honda Accord (Lagos KJA13QFA).
Upon receiving the distress call, the area commander swiftly mobilized a specialized team to the scene. The police encountered a roadblock set up by the assailants using an articulated truck, from which they indiscriminately fired at passing vehicles, causing panic among commuters.
“In response to the unfolding crisis, a covert operation was authorized by Lanre Ogunlowo, the Commissioner of Police,” Odutola disclosed.
The operation culminated in a confrontation at the kidnappers’ hideout later that day, where the suspects opened fire on the police squad. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, five suspects were neutralized.
Recovered from the scene were crucial items including an AK-47 rifle, ten rounds of 5.6mm calibre ammunition, approximately N5.2 million in cash believed to be proceeds from criminal activities, and three mobile phones.
Efforts are currently underway to apprehend any injured members of the syndicate who managed to escape.
Commissioner Ogunlowo, in response to the operation, emphasized the commitment of the Command to stamping out criminal activities in Ogun State, particularly those targeting innocent citizens.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and assured continuous efforts towards ensuring the safety and security of all residents.
The successful rescue operation and neutralization of suspects mark a significant victory for the Ogun State Police Command in its ongoing battle against kidnapping and other forms of violent crime plaguing the region.
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