Police Rescue Nine Kidnap Victims in Ogun
By: Emmanuel Ibitoye
In a swift and courageous response, the Divisional Police Officer of Isara Division successfully rescued nine out of the ten individuals recently kidnapped in Ogun State. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, released a statement detailing the events that unfolded.
The incident began when suspected hoodlums emerged from the bush near Bamboo area, along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, barricading the highway with articulated vehicles. The assailants, yet to be identified, created chaos by shooting indiscriminately into the air, causing panic among motorists. In the ensuing commotion, motorists abandoned their vehicles and fled into the bush for safety.
Responding to the report, the Divisional Police Officer and his team, accompanied by an armed patrol unit, swiftly raced to the scene. A gun battle ensued, enabling the escape of nine kidnapped victims who rejoined their vehicles and continued their journey. Unfortunately, a white Mazda bus registered as LSR 288 XE sustained slight damage during the exchange.
Among those escaping, Eunice Afolake Osalusi, Erinfolami Samuel, Obafemi Da Altantra, and Adeyinka Matthew sustained non-life-threatening bullet injuries but are stable and recovering in the hospital. Tragically, Bilikisu Kazeem, aged 37, lost her life before reaching the hospital.
Philip Aivoji, who identified himself as the Lagos State PDP Chairman, remains held captive, as covert operations are underway to ensure his release.
In a related incident, the Katsina State Police Command reported the foiling of a kidnap attempt in Dandume community. One suspected bandit was neutralized, and a general-purpose machine gun was recovered.
The Commissioner of Police commended the officers for their bravery and professionalism, urging residents to continue providing timely information on suspected criminal activities. Additionally, troops of 6 Brigade in Taraba State engaged bandits in Wukari Local Council, resulting in the recovery of weapons and a commitment to ongoing efforts to eradicate criminal elements in the region.
