Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have gunned down two suspected kidnappers and arrested two other members of a syndicate, including the alleged kingpin, during a targeted tactical operation in the Atan-Ijebu axis of the state.

The breakthrough followed an intensive intelligence-led operation conducted by the command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit.

The crackdown was initiated in response to the high-profile abduction of three family members on Monday from the Ipojo area of Iperin, Atan-Ijebu. Although the victims were released unharmed on Thursday after an unspecified ransom was paid to the hoodlums, police operatives sustained surveillance to track down the perpetrators.

According to a statement issued in Abeokuta by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, tactical teams acting on credible intelligence stormed the suspects’ hideout along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Friday.

Upon sighting the advancing security operatives, the armed hoodlums opened fire, provoking a fierce gun duel. In the ensuing exchange, two of the suspected kidnappers were fatally wounded, while several others managed to escape deeper into the surrounding forest with various degrees of gunshot injuries.

Further sweeps of the area and follow-up operations led to the successful arrest of two fleeing members of the gang. The police identified the captured suspects as Seriki Abdullahi, who is believed to be the mastermind and kingpin of the kidnap syndicate, and Mohammed Bello, a key member of the gang.

The State Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, commended the tactical team for their gallantry, high level of professionalism, and resilience in dismantling the criminal camp. He reaffirmed the command’s uncompromising stance against violent crimes, assuring residents that an active manhunt is underway to arrest the remaining fleeing members of the syndicate and completely untangle their network.