The Ogun State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its fight against violent crime, neutralising a suspected kidnapping kingpin during a fierce gun battle in a forest hideout along the Abeokuta–Ibadan Expressway.
The operation, carried out by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, also led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, ₦2 million cash, and two mobile phones.
The statement was issued by Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Command, DSP Oluseyi Babasayi.
According to the PPRO, the raid followed the rescue of a kidnapped victim who was abducted on May 14, 2026, at Nufats Fuel Station along the Abeokuta–Ibadan Expressway in the Odeda area of the state.
He added that the victim was released unharmed on May 18, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m., after days in captivity.
He said security operatives, acting on intelligence gathered after the victim’s release, subsequently launched a coordinated manhunt for members of the criminal gang.
“In the early hours of Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at about 6:00 a.m., the anti-kidnapping squad stormed a suspected hideout located within the Orile Ilugun Forest axis.
“On sighting the police team, the suspects reportedly opened fire, triggering a gun duel.
“The operatives responded with superior firepower, killing the gang’s leader on the spot, while other members escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot injuries.
“A search of the hideout led to the recovery of the AK-47 rifle, ammunition, the ₦2 million ransom sum, and two mobile phones.”
The police said the remains of the neutralised suspect had been deposited in a morgue for autopsy, while a manhunt has been launched for the fleeing members of the syndicate.
The statement read that Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their professionalism, courage, and tactical response, reiterating the Command’s resolve to sustain the onslaught against kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies through the Command’s emergency lines: 0800 000 9111 (Gateway Shield toll-free), 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.
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