The Ogun State Police Command has achieved another significant victory in its battle against kidnapping by thwarting an alleged abduction attempt involving a Chinese national along the Ijebu-Ode–Odogbolu Expressway corridor. This operation resulted in the arrest of two primary suspects and comes weeks after a tragic incident where a soldier and four hostages lost their lives during a similar kidnap attempt involving a Chinese national at a private dredging site in Magbon, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.
Arrest of Suspects
The suspects, identified as Chinedu Onwuemena, 41, and Jimoh Ojo, 37, were apprehended on June 9, 2026, at approximately 5:30 p.m. They are alleged to have conspired to abduct the expatriate and demand a ransom of N50 million. The command's spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed the development in a statement released yesterday.
Intelligence-Led Operation
According to Babaseyi, the arrests were made possible by credible and actionable intelligence received by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Obalende Division regarding an imminent kidnapping plot along the Ijebu-Ode–Odogbolu Expressway. The DPO promptly mobilized operatives, including members of the surveillance team, to the identified location, where the suspects were intercepted and arrested.
Preliminary Findings
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had allegedly conspired to kidnap the Chinese national and extort N50 million. Further findings indicated that Chinedu Onwuemena, who reportedly worked for the company as an interpreter and driver, allegedly exploited his position to facilitate the planned abduction.
“Investigations further established that the arrested suspects did not act alone but in concert with another accomplice who is currently at large. Efforts are ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing suspect, while discreet investigations continue to unravel the extent of the criminal network behind the conspiracy,” Babaseyi stated.
Case Transferred for Further Investigation
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation. The Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the professionalism, vigilance, and swift response of operatives of the Obalende Division, noting that their actions prevented what could have resulted in a serious kidnapping incident.
Call for Community Partnership
Ojajuni also acknowledged the role of timely intelligence in the operation, stressing that the success underscores the importance of community partnership in crime prevention and security management. He reassured residents and members of the business community that the Ogun State Police Command remains committed to intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, and the relentless pursuit of criminal elements threatening public peace and safety. The commissioner further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting the police by promptly reporting suspicious movements and activities.
