By ABIODUN LAWAL

The Police Command in Ogun State has neutralised two suspected kidnappers, rescued an abducted victim and recovered a gun, N2.2 million, a mobile phone and other exhibits.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Abeokuta.

Babaseyi said operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit recorded the breakthrough during sustained operations against kidnapping across the state.

He said the victim was abducted on June 11 at Ogbe Village in Obafemi Owode local government area of the state.

According to him, the command immediately deployed intelligence and tactical teams to rescue the victim and apprehend the suspects.

“Determined to ensure that those responsible did not evade justice, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit intensified follow-up operations and embarked on a coordinated manhunt for the suspects.

“Acting on credible intelligence, the operatives successfully traced members of the gang to their hideout within the state,” he said.

Babaseyi said sustained surveillance and intelligence gathering mounted pressure on the gang, leading to the victim’s safe release on Thursday.

He said operatives subsequently launched a coordinated manhunt and traced members of the gang to their hideout.

The police spokesperson said the suspects opened fire while resisting arrest, prompting a gun battle with the operatives.

He said two suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while other gang members escaped with gunshot injuries.

According to him, a search recovered a single-barrel gun, one expended cartridge, a mobile phone and N2.2 million suspected to be proceeds of crime.

He said efforts had been intensified to arrest the fleeing suspects, while investigation into the case was ongoing.

Babaseyi quoted the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, as commending the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for its professionalism and courage during the operation.

Ojajuni reiterated the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and sustained operations against kidnappers and other violent criminals.

The commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and provide timely and credible information to support efforts against criminality across the state. (NAN)