The Ogun State Police Command has announced the rescue of three Indian nationals and one Nigerian abducted on June 30 along the Ilisan axis of the Sagamu-Ijebu Ode-Benin Expressway.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday at the Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, revealed that the victims were safely rescued following a gun battle between the kidnappers and the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad.
Governor Dapo Abiodun had earlier issued a directive to the police and other security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the kidnappers, who struck on the victims’ first day in Nigeria.
Detailing the operation, Alamutu said, “The kidnappers emerged from an unregistered Venza car, shooting at the vehicle’s driver-side tyres and rear, forcing it to a halt. They subsequently abducted the occupants and fled towards Ijebu-Ode.
“Upon receiving the distress call, the Anti-Kidnapping Squad was dispatched to track the suspects. Through a covert operation, they were located in a bush. The suspects engaged the officers in a fierce gunfight but succumbed to the squad’s superior firepower. Two kidnappers were neutralized, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.”
He confirmed that the victims were rescued unharmed and reunited with their families. “The victims include three Indian nationals and one Nigerian. They are safe and back with their loved ones,” he added.
Recovered items from the scene included five AK-47 rifles, 105 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, eight AK-47 magazines, and two cell phones. Alamutu also disclosed a curious discovery during the investigation: “Foreign and Nigerian currencies were found hidden inside the rifles, suggesting possible international connections to the crime.”
The Commissioner emphasized the Command’s commitment to securing lives and properties, particularly in areas prone to such incidents. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report anyone with gunshot wounds to the nearest police station.
“The Ogun State security architecture is on high alert, ensuring that incidents like this are effectively addressed. We appeal to citizens to support our efforts by providing timely information about suspicious activities,” Alamutu stated.
