According to the Ogun State Police Command, four alleged kidnappers were neutralized in a foiled kidnapping attempt on the long bridge along the Lagos/Ibadan Motorway, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
Police claimed working firearms were recovered from the perpetrators, and their victims were freed uninjured.
Omolola Odutola, the police public relations officer, announced this in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.
She said operational weapons were recovered from the suspects while their victims were rescued unharmed.
“In a swift and well-coordinated response to a distress call, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command foiled a kidnap attempt along the Warewa axis of the Long Bridge on February 20, 2025, at about 2030hrs,” she said
“A white Paragon commercial vehicle with registration number BDG 753 YH, driven by Mr Morufu Adedeji and heading towards Lagos, was ambushed by unknown armed men at a lonely section of the road, the assailants, wielding firearms and dangerous weapons, forcefully halted the vehicle, pointed a gun at the driver, and began robbing passengers at gunpoint.”
She said during the attack, some passengers managed to escape through the rear door, which had been smartly and courageously opened by the driver.
“This act enraged the kidnappers, who then brutally assaulted the driver to the point of unconsciousness; other motorists raised an alarm, which was swiftly intercepted by the Anti-Kidnapping Team on patrol.”
“Upon arrival, the police operatives engaged the fleeing criminals in a gun duel. Four of the armed men were fatally injured, while others escaped with gunshot wounds into the surrounding forest”
The objects found at the scene included a locally made pistol with two bullets, two daggers, a cash sum of ₦20,000, a Tecno Android phone, a solar powerbank, and three USB lights (suspected stolen property).
“The bodies of the neutralised kidnappers have been deposited at the State Hospital Mortuary, Ijaiye, Abeokuta, for autopsy and further investigation”
The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has underlined the Command’s commitment to combating criminal activity and strengthening security in the area.
“He has reinforced tactical operatives to remain stationed at strategic flashpoints, in Arepo and heighten routine patrols to ensure the security of residents and commuters.”
The Command has, however, urged members of the public, especially medical practitioners, to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds.
“Citizens are also advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station,” the statement added.
