Two suspected kidnappers killed, kingpin, 1 other arrested in Ogun

By Adejoke Adeleye Ogun

A suspected kidnap kingpin identified as Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi and his gang member, Mohammed Bello, have been arrested after two members of the syndicate were shot dead by police in operations that followed the abduction of three persons at Ipojo Area, Iperin, Atan-Ijebu area of Ogun State on the 11th of May 2026.

The police operatives also recovered on AK-47 rifle loaded with 10 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, one single-barrel gun, the sum of N1.5m suspected to be ransom proceeds, several mobile phones, and a black bag.

Oluseyi Babaseyi, the spokesperson for Ogun Police Command said the operation was carried out following the release of the three kidnapped persons unharmed on the 14th of May 2026 at about 7:30 p.m. by their captors following the payment of an unspecified ransom.

According to him, following the release of the victims, operatives of the Ogun Police Command Anti-Kidnapping Squad intensified efforts to track down members of the gang responsible for the abduction which resulted into killing of two of the suspected kidnappers on 15, May 2026.

“Consequently, on the 15th of May 2026 at about 5:00 a.m., operatives acting on credible intelligence stormed the kidnappers’ hideout located along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road axis of Ogun State.

“On sighting the Police operatives, the suspects opened fire, leading to a fierce gun duel.

“The operatives responded professionally, resulting in the neutralization of two of the suspected kidnappers, while other members of the gang escaped into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of bullet injuries.

The Ogun Police Command spokesperson added that the corpses of the neutralized suspects have been deposited at a morgue for autopsy in line with standard procedure, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the syndicate.

“All recovered exhibits have been secured, while investigation continues to unravel the full network of the gang and facilitate prosecution of the arrested suspects.

“The Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Bode Ojajuni, psc, FCSS, MNIPR, commends the operatives for their gallantry, professionalism, and resilience. The CP reiterates the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes across Ogun State.

“Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements or criminal activities through the Ogun State Police Command emergency lines: Gateway Shield (Toll-Free): 0800 000 9111; Emergency Lines: 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, 0708 497 2994,” Babaseyi said in the statement.