Police in Ondo State killed two suspected kidnappers during a gun battle at Ilu-Abo on the Akure-Owo Expressway in the early hours of Wednesday. The incident occurred after a distress call about armed men invading the Olaiya Block Industry, located beside Ilu-Abo High School, around 3:30 am. The Ondo State Police Command said a patrol team from the Federal Highway Patrol Unit, Ilu-Abo, responded swiftly and engaged the suspects in a fierce exchange of gunfire. Seven masked gunmen had stormed the facility and demanded to see the business owner before the police arrived.
Police Public Relations Officer Jimoh Abayomi confirmed the operation in a statement issued Wednesday morning. He said two of the suspects were killed during the encounter, while the remaining gang members fled into nearby bushes with gunshot injuries. Recovered items included one locally fabricated pistol, live cartridges, four mobile phones, several face masks, and two ATM cards believed to belong to either the suspects or their victims. The bodies of the deceased have been taken to the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, for preservation and further procedures.
The case has been handed over to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department for investigation. Commissioner of Police Felix Ohagwu has ordered a manhunt for the escaped suspects. He also urged healthcare providers and residents to report anyone seeking treatment for gunshot wounds or acting suspiciously. The police command said the operation reflected its commitment to combating kidnapping and violent crime through intelligence-led strategies.
The police report a gun battle but name none of the suspects or victims, leaving the public with no way to verify claims about the identities or motives involved. The recovery of ATM cards raises questions about whether any victims have been identified or contacted. A manhunt is underway, yet there is no confirmation that any ransom demands or missing persons cases preceded the incident. This operation, while presented as decisive, offers more mystery than clarity.
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