By Peace Udugba
Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command have neutralized a suspected kidnapping kingpin during an intelligence-led operation at a criminal hideout located in the Orile Ilugun Forest axis along the Abeokuta–Ibadan Expressway.
The operation also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of 5.6mm live ammunition, the sum of ₦2 million, and two mobile phones.
According to a statement issued by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed the successful rescue of a kidnapping victim who was abducted on May 14, 2026, at Nufats Fuel Station along the Abeokuta–Ibadan Expressway in the Odeda area of the state.
The victim was released unharmed by the abductors on May 18 at about 8:30 p.m.
Following the victim’s release, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad intensified intelligence-driven efforts aimed at apprehending members of the gang responsible for the abduction.
Acting on credible intelligence, police operatives stormed the kidnappers’ hideout in the Orile Ilugun Forest area at about 6:00 a.m. on May 19.
The police said the suspects opened fire immediately they sighted the operatives, leading to a fierce gun battle.
The operatives, however, overpowered the criminals with superior tactical firepower, resulting in the neutralization of the gang leader, while other members of the syndicate reportedly escaped into the forest with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of live ammunition, ₦2 million cash, and two mobile phones.
The corpse of the neutralized suspect has been deposited at a morgue for autopsy in line with standard procedures, while efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest the fleeing gang members.
The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their gallantry, professionalism, and resilience during the operation.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across Ogun State.
The police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines.
