Operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command on Thursday, February 20, at about 8:30p.m., foiled a kidnap attempt at Warewa axis of the Long Bridge on Lagos-Ibadan expressway and neutralised four armed men while others escaped with gunshot wounds into the surrounding forest.
Thenewsbearer learnt that the AKS operatives foiled the attempt as a result of swift and well-coordinated response to a distress call.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the command, CSP Omolola Odutola, who confirmed the incident, explained that a white commercial vehicle with registration number BDG 753 YH, driven by Mr. Morufu Adedeji and heading towards Lagos, was ambushed by armed men, suspected to be kidnappers, 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.
“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 alarm, which was swiftly intercepted by the Anti-Kidnapping Team on patrol.
“Upon arrival, the police operatives engaged the criminals in a gun duel. Four of the armed men were fatally injured, while others escaped with gunshot wounds into the surrounding forest,” the police spokesperson stated.
Items recovered at the scene included a locally-made pistol with two cartridges, two daggers, cash sum of ₦20,000, a Tecno Android phone, a solar power bank and three USB lights (suspected stolen property).
Odutola said that the bodies of the neutralised suspects had been deposited at the State Hospital Morgue, Ijaiye, Abeokuta, for autopsy and further investigation.
The Command urged members of the public, especially medical practitioners, to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds.
Citizens were also advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
In his comment, the Commissioner of Police, Dr Lanre Ogunlowo, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ridding the area of criminal activities and further strengthening security there.
He said that he has reinforced Tactical operatives to remain stationed at strategic flashpoints at Arepo and heighten routine patrols to ensure the security of residents and commuters.
