Police operatives in Ogun State gunned down two suspected kidnappers on Friday morning. The shootout happened along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road after officers stormed a hideout used by the gang.
Two other gang members were arrested during the raid. One of them, Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi, is believed to be the kingpin of the kidnapping ring.
The operation followed an intelligence-led investigation into a kidnapping that occurred on Monday. Three persons had been abducted from Ipojo Area in Iperin, Atan-Ijebu.
Those victims were freed on Thursday after a ransom was paid. Police said the amount remained unspecified.
Once the captives were released, Anti-Kidnapping Squad operatives intensified their manhunt for gang members. Investigators tracked the criminals to their forest hideout.
Officers moved in around 5 a.m. on May 15th, 2026. The suspects immediately opened fire when they spotted the police approaching.
A fierce gunbattle erupted between both sides. Police returned fire with professional precision, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi noted in a statement on Saturday.
Two kidnappers died in the exchange. Several others escaped into nearby forests, though they sustained varying bullet wounds.
Intelligence work continued after the initial clash. This led investigators to apprehend Abdullahi and his associate, Mohammed Bello.
Officers recovered significant items from the hideout. One AK-47 rifle with ten rounds of 5.6mm ammunition was seized.
Police also found a single-barrel shotgun at the location. Cash suspected to be ransom money totalled ₦1,500,000.
Mobile phones and a black bag were recovered as well. Babaseyi confirmed all exhibits remained secured for investigation.
The two dead suspects have been taken to a morgue. Autopsies will follow standard police procedure, according to the spokesperson.
Manhunt operations continue for gang members still at large. Investigators say the fugitives suffered bullet injuries during their escape.
Authorities are working to dismantle the entire criminal network. Babaseyi told reporters that full investigations are underway to expose connections between suspects.
Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni commended the raid team's bravery. He praised their professionalism and determination in executing the operation.
Ojajuni reaffirmed the command's dedication to combating kidnapping across Ogun. He said violent crime remains a priority for law enforcement in the state.
