Police in Ondo State killed two suspected kidnappers during a gunfight early Wednesday in Ilu Abo, along the Akure–Owo Expressway. The suspects were among a group of about seven masked men who invaded Olaiya Block Industry, demanding to see the owner, according to Abayomi Jimoh, spokesperson for the Ondo Police Command. Officers from the Federal Highway Unit responded to a distress call and engaged the gunmen in a shootout, resulting in the death of two suspects. The remaining attackers fled into nearby bushes, some believed to have sustained gunshot wounds.
Recovered at the scene were one locally fabricated pistol, live cartridges, four mobile phones, several face masks, and two ATM cards suspected to belong to either the gang or their victims. The bodies of the deceased suspects were taken to the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, for preservation and formal procedures. The case has been handed over to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.
Police have launched efforts to track down the fleeing suspects and are urging residents, especially healthcare providers, to report anyone showing signs of gunshot injuries or suspicious behavior to the nearest police station. Jimoh stated that the operation reflects the Ondo Police Command's ongoing commitment to intelligence-led policing and eliminating safe havens for criminal elements. He also thanked the public for cooperation and encouraged continued reporting of credible information.
The police say they acted on credible intelligence to stop kidnappers, yet the suspects were already inside the block industry demanding the owner when officers arrived. The delay raises questions about how quickly intelligence is translated into action. If the gang had time to invade and make demands, the response may not have been as swift as claimed. This gap could leave other businesses vulnerable despite assurances of proactive policing.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
