Ogun State police say they've stopped a kidnapping plot targeting a Chinese worker and arrested two men involved in the scheme.
The alleged abduction was meant to demand N50 million in ransom, according to the police command's spokesman, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi.
Babaseyi told reporters the suspects were caught on Tuesday following tips received by officers. Intelligence had flagged a kidnapping plan along the Ijebu-Ode/Odogbolu Expressway.
Police from Obalende Division quickly moved to intercept the suspects before they could act. The operation was led by the divisional police officer.
In his words, preliminary investigations revealed the men had plotted to snatch the Chinese national. One suspect worked as an interpreter and driver at the victim's company.
That position gave him access to carry out the plan, Babaseyi explained. He had exploited his role within the organization.
Police say a third suspect is still on the run. Investigators are working to track him down and understand the full scope of the plot.
The case has now been handed to the State Criminal Investigation Department. Officers at SCID will continue questioning the arrested men.
CP Bode Ojajuni, the Ogun police commissioner, commended the officers for their quick thinking. He said their swift action prevented a major crime.
Ojajuni noted that solid intelligence and public cooperation are crucial for fighting crime. Without them, such plots might succeed.
He promised residents the police remain committed to intelligence-led security work. The command won't lower its guard, he said.
Ojajuni called on the public to watch for suspicious activity around them. Citizens should report anything unusual to the police immediately.
He particularly urged members of the business community to stay alert. Security depends on everyone playing their part.
