Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command’s Special Squad 1 have neutralised four suspected kidnappers during a counter-operation aimed at preventing the abduction of a businessman in the Ejigbo area of Lagos State.
The operation, which took place on Sunday night at the Jakande Estate Gate, also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, another firearm, ammunition, and vehicles allegedly linked to the criminal gang.
The exchange of gunfire reportedly continued until about 11:00 p.m., causing panic as traders and residents in the vicinity fled the area for safety.
Security sources said the operation was triggered by credible intelligence indicating that a kidnapping syndicate was planning to abduct a businessman at around 9:30 p.m. at the estate gate.
A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the intelligence was immediately escalated to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, prompting the deployment of operatives to the location for surveillance and interception.
The source identified the alleged gang leader simply as Ifeanyi, popularly known as “Ifeko,” adding that he had previously been linked to several kidnapping incidents within Lagos.
He further alleged that the suspect had connections with members of another kidnapping gang that was neutralised during a police operation at the Ladipo International Spare Parts Market in 2024.
According to the officer, the suspects opened fire on sighting the police team, resulting in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“The suspects immediately engaged the operatives upon noticing them, but they were overpowered by superior firepower. At the end of the operation, four suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while one escaped with gunshot injuries,” the source said.
A police inspector attached to the squad sustained a gunshot wound to his left leg during the confrontation and was quickly taken to the Police College Hospital in Ikeja, where he is currently receiving treatment and responding well.
Items recovered from the scene included a Toyota Sienna, an AK-47 rifle with two magazines containing 25 rounds of live ammunition, a submachine gun fitted with a magazine loaded with 12 rounds, as well as keys to a Toyota Corolla and a Lexus vehicle.
Police authorities confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and dismantle the remaining members of the gang.