- Odibo Victory
The Ogun State Police Command says it has neutralised two suspected kidnappers during a counter-tactical operation and rescued an abducted truck driver.
The Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Oluborode Opeyemi, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abeokuta on Sunday.
He said the operation also led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, 25 rounds of live ammunition, two mobile phones and N2 million in cash.
According to Opeyemi, the truck driver was abducted at about 11:10 p.m. on Tuesday in the Ajibawo area of Ibese, Ogun State.
He said the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit immediately launched an operation after receiving the report, which subsequently yielded actionable intelligence on the location of the kidnappers’ hideout.
“Operatives stormed the kidnappers’ hideout along the Papalanto-Ilaro road, neutralising two suspects while other gang members fled with gunshot injuries.
“A search of the hideout led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, 25 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, two mobile phones and N2million.
“The recovered cash was reasonably suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities, while the corpses of the two suspects were deposited at the morgue,” he said.
The police spokesman said the command had stepped up efforts to locate and apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its gallantry, professionalism, courage and operational effectiveness.
Ojajuni said the operation demonstrated the command’s resolve to relentlessly pursue kidnappers and other violent criminals, regardless of where they seek refuge.
“Ogun state will remain a hostile terrain for criminal elements,” the commissioner said.
He assured residents that the command would sustain the deployment of intelligence-led policing, tactical operations and community partnerships to safeguard lives and property.
The commissioner also urged residents to remain security conscious and provide credible information to the police, especially about individuals seeking medical attention for suspected gunshot injuries.