By Stephen Simon
Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have rescued an abducted professional truck driver and neutralised two suspected kidnappers during a targeted counter-operation along the Papalanto–Ilaro Road in Yewa South Local Government Area.
The victim was abducted by an armed gang around Ajibawo, Ibese, at approximately 11:10 p.m. on August 25, 2026, while in transit.
Acting on credible intelligence regarding the gang’s operational base and movement, tactical operatives from the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit launched a precision strike to intercept the suspects and free the captive.
Upon sighting the approaching police team along the Papalanto–Ilaro corridor, the heavily armed kidnappers opened fire in an attempt to break through the security cordon. The operatives responded with superior firepower, engaging the gang in an intense gun duel.
During the exchange of fire, two members of the kidnapping syndicate sustained fatal gunshot injuries and were subsequently confirmed dead, while other gang members fled into the surrounding forest with varying degrees of bullet wounds.
The abducted truck driver was rescued unhurt and has since been reunited with his family following medical evaluation. Police operatives recovered firearms, ammunition, and operational items left behind by the fleeing suspects at the scene.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Sunday, the Ogun State Police Command assured residents that active bush-combing operations are ongoing across the Papalanto–Ilaro forest axis to track down and arrest the fleeing, injured suspects.
The Command urged members of the public and local medical practitioners to report anyone seen around the area seeking treatment for gunshot wounds to the nearest police station.
