National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Chibuzor Alli
No fewer than five kidnappers have been killed by the Ogun State Police operatives following a distress call about an armed robbery incident.
The operation, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, was a direct response to a previous attack on January 25, where three commuters were abducted near Ilishan in Ogun State.
The situation escalated when the Area Commander in Sagamu received alerts from terrified commuters about gunmen setting up a roadblock on the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode Expressway.
The assailants, using an articulated truck, opened fire on unarmed passengers, causing widespread panic. In the chaos, three individuals—Bolaji Bilesanmi (65), Olasunkanmi Idowu (50), and a third victim, Mohammed Salisu were forcibly abducted from their vehicles.
In response to the crisis, the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, mobilized the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for a covert operation.
This decisive action led to the discovery of the kidnappers’ hideout.
Upon arrival, the police squad was met with fierce gunfire from the gang, resulting in the deaths of five kidnappers, while others reportedly escaped with injuries.
During the operation, police recovered several items, including; One AK-47 rifle, Ten rounds of 5.6mm calibre ammunition, ₦5.2 million believed to be proceeds from their criminal activities and Three mobile phones.
Fortunately, all three abducted victims were located and freed unharmed.
However, the police have initiated a manhunt for the injured members of the gang to ensure they are brought to justice.
Meanwhile, in light of these events, Ogunlowo emphasized the police command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property in Ogun State.
He stated, “We will not tolerate criminal activities, especially among the youth who may be tempted to engage in high-profile crimes for quick financial gain.”
He reiterated the police’s determination to conduct an aggressive crackdown on criminals threatening the peace and safety of citizens.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement in Nigeria to combat the rising wave of kidnappings and armed robberies that have plagued various regions.
