Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have neutralised two suspected kidnappers and arrested an alleged kidnapping kingpin alongside another gang member during an intelligence-led operation in Ogun State.
The command disclosed that the operation also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle loaded with 10 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, a single-barrel gun, N1.5 million suspected to be ransom proceeds, several mobile phones, and a black bag.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, the operation followed investigations into the abduction of three persons at the Ipojo area of Iperin, Atan-Ijebu, on May 11, 2026.
The victims were reportedly released unharmed on May 14 after the payment of an undisclosed ransom.
Following their release, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit intensified efforts to track down members of the gang responsible for the abduction.
Police said that at about 5:00 a.m. on May 15, operatives acting on credible intelligence stormed a suspected kidnappers’ hideout along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road axis.
The suspects allegedly opened fire on the police team upon sighting them, leading to a gun battle.
The police stated that two of the suspects were killed during the exchange of fire, while other gang members escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot injuries.
Further follow-up operations reportedly led to the arrest of the alleged gang leader, identified as Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi, and another suspect, Mohammed Bello.
The police added that additional incriminating items linked to the criminal operation were also recovered from the suspects.
The bodies of the deceased suspects have been deposited in a morgue for autopsy, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate.
Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their professionalism and bravery, reaffirming the command’s commitment to combating kidnapping and violent crimes across the state.
The command also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities through its emergency communication channels.
