The Ogun State Police Command has successfully neutralised two suspected kidnappers and apprehended an alleged kidnapping kingpin, Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi, along with a suspected gang member, Mohammed Bello, following a fierce gun battle. The operation was carried out by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit.
Operation Details
According to a statement released to journalists, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Oluseyi Babaseyi, revealed that the intelligence-led operation resulted in the recovery of one AK-47 rifle loaded with 10 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, one single-barrel gun, the sum of N1.5 million suspected to be ransom proceeds, several mobile phones, and a black bag.
Background of the Incident
Babaseyi explained that the operation was based on sustained intelligence gathering and investigations into the kidnapping of three individuals who were abducted on May 11, 2026, at the Ipojo area of Iperin, Atan-Ijebu, in Ogun State. The victims were released unharmed on May 14, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m. after an unspecified ransom was paid.
Police Response
After the victims regained their freedom, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad intensified efforts to track down the gang members responsible. On May 15, 2026, at about 5:00 a.m., acting on credible intelligence, the operatives stormed the kidnappers' hideout located along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road axis of Ogun State. The suspects opened fire upon seeing the police, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
Babaseyi stated, “The operatives responded professionally, resulting in the neutralisation of two suspected kidnappers, while other members of the gang escaped into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of bullet injuries.”
Arrests and Recovery
Follow-up intelligence operations led to the arrest of the suspected kingpin, Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi, and another gang member, Mohammed Bello. Additional incriminating exhibits linked to the criminal operation were also recovered. The corpses of the neutralised suspects have been deposited at a morgue for autopsy in line with standard procedures, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend fleeing members of the syndicate.
“All recovered exhibits have been secured, while investigations continue to unravel the full network of the gang and facilitate prosecution of the arrested suspects,” Babaseyi added.
Commendation from Police Commissioner
The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their gallantry, professionalism, and resilience. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
