Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have successfully rescued three kidnap victims and dismantled a kidnappers’ hideout in the Obafemi Owode Local Government Area.
The victims, who were abducted around Ajebo under the Owode-Egba Division jurisdiction, were freed unharmed at about 9 pm on Friday.
Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola confirmed the operation to reporters in Abeokuta, revealing that officers engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel during the rescue mission.
“Following expert monitoring, on 18th July, 2025, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit deployed intelligence surveillance in the area and rescued the three victims unharmed at about 2100hrs,” Odutola stated.
The confrontation left two kidnappers fatally wounded, while others escaped into the forest with gunshot injuries. Recovered items from the hideout included an AK-47 rifle (Breech No. 5005584) loaded with 139 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, one magazine, a cutlass, chains and padlocks believed to have restrained the victims, mobile phones, and N1.2 million in cash.
Odutola emphasized that the successful operation demonstrates the command’s commitment to citizen safety and combating violent crime. “During the operation, the kidnappers engaged the police team in a gun duel. In the ensuing exchange of fire, two of the kidnappers were fatally wounded, while others escaped deeper into the forest with gunshot injuries,” she added.
Ogun State Commissioner of Police Lanre Ogunlowo praised the Anti-Kidnapping Unit’s swift tactical response and assured that officers are pursuing the fleeing suspects to ensure they face justice.