Ogun Police Rescue 10 Kidnap Victims After Four Days in Captivity, Neutralise Suspected Gang Member.
The Ogun State Police Command has rescued 10 passengers abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Orita Fufu area of Awa Ijebu, in Ijebu North East Local Government Area, following sustained security operations that also resulted in the death of one suspected kidnapper.
The victims were abducted on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, while travelling in a commercial bus. According to the police, they regained their freedom unharmed at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, following intelligence led efforts and sustained operational pressure on the suspected kidnappers.
In a follow up operation in the early hours of Sunday, November 8, operatives of the Police Anti Kidnapping Unit stormed a suspected criminal hideout along the Ibadan-Ijebu Ode Road at approximately 1:00 a.m.
The operation reportedly triggered a gun battle between security operatives and members of the suspected kidnapping gang. During the confrontation, one suspect was neutralized, while other gang members reportedly escaped with suspected gunshot injuries.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ogun State Command, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, security operatives recovered an AK-47 rifle, 20 rounds of ammunition, ₦1,376,800 in cash and a mobile phone from the hideout.
The police spokesperson further disclosed that efforts were ongoing to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects, particularly those believed to have sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and report anyone observed with suspicious gunshot wounds to the nearest police station or through established police communication channels. The command stressed that timely information from members of the public would assist security agencies in identifying and arresting the remaining suspects.
Background: Kidnapping raises fresh security concerns in Ogun
The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of motorists and passengers travelling along the Ijebu Ode Ibadan corridor, following the abduction of travellers from a commercial vehicle.
Before the victims’ release, reports by The Guardian and Vanguard highlighted concerns raised by families over the abduction, including reported ransom demands of ₦25 million and appeals for urgent intervention from security agencies.
The successful rescue represents a significant development in the operation, although the escape of other suspected gang members means the security challenge remains unresolved.
The latest operation also underscores the importance of intelligence gathering, effective policing and cooperation between security agencies and local communities in addressing kidnapping and other violent crimes.
As investigations continue, the Ogun State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to pursuing the fleeing suspects and strengthening security across the state.