Two suspected kidnappers killed in gun battle with Ondo police
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Ondo State Police Command has said its operatives killed two suspected kidnappers during a gun battle at Ilu-Abo along the Akure-Owo Expressway, recovering a locally fabricated pistol, live cartridges, four mobile phones, face masks and two ATM cards.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, disclosed the development in a statement on Wednesday, revealing that the operation was carried out by operatives of the Federal Highway Patrol Unit following a distress call over the activities of suspected armed men at Olaiya Block Industry beside Ilu-Abo High School.
According to the statement, the incident occurred around 3.30 a.m. when about seven masked gunmen reportedly stormed the block industry and demanded to see the owner. The police team was said to have responded swiftly, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire with the suspects.
The command said two of the suspected kidnappers were neutralised during the gun duel, while other members of the gang escaped into the surrounding bush with suspected gunshot injuries. It added that a locally fabricated pistol, live cartridges, four mobile phones, several face masks and two ATM cards believed to belong to the syndicate or their victims were recovered from the scene.
“The bodies of the deceased suspects have been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, while the case has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet and comprehensive investigation,” the statement read.
The police said efforts had commenced to track down the fleeing suspects, urging residents, particularly healthcare providers, to report anyone presenting suspicious gunshot injuries or exhibiting suspicious movements to the nearest police station.
“This operation underscores the unwavering resolve of the Ondo State Police Command to rid the state of kidnapping and other violent crimes. The command remains committed to intelligence-led policing and ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven in Ondo State,” the statement added.
The command also appreciated residents for their continued support and cooperation, urging members of the public to provide timely and credible information that would assist ongoing efforts to tackle criminality across the state.
