The Ondo State Police Command says its operatives have neutralised two suspected kidnappers during a gun duel at Ilu Abo in Akure North Local Government Area of the state.
The spokesperson for the command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh in a statement, said the incident occurred on Wednesday at about 3:30 a.m., when a patrol team from the Federal Highway Patrol Unit, Ilu-Abo responded to a distress call regarding the activities of armed men at Olaiya Block Industry, located beside Ilu-Abo High School on the Akure–Owo Expressway.
Jimoh stated that preliminary reports revealed that about seven masked armed men invaded the premises of the block industry and demanded to see the owner.
“Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, the police patrol team mobilized to the scene, where the suspects engaged operatives in a fierce exchange of gunfire.
“During the encounter, two of the suspected kidnappers were neutralized, while the remaining members of the gang escaped into the surrounding bush with varying degrees of gunshot injuries.
“Meanwhile, one locally fabricated pistol, Live Cartridges, four mobile phones, several face masks, as well as two ATM Cards believed to belong to the criminal syndicate or their victims were recovered.
“The bodies of the deceased suspects have been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital, Akure, for preservation and other necessary procedures, while the case has been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet and comprehensive investigation.
“The Command has commenced efforts to track and apprehend the fleeing members of the gang, who are believed to have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter. “Residents, particularly healthcare providers and members of the public, are urged to promptly report any individual presenting suspicious gunshot injuries or exhibiting suspicious movements to the nearest police station.
“This operation further underscores the unwavering resolve of the Ondo State Police Command to rid the State of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
“The Command remains steadfast in its commitment to deploying intelligence-led policing, strengthening operational responses, and ensuring that criminal elements have no safe haven within Ondo State,” he said.
Jimoh appreciated members of the public for their continued cooperation, encouraging them to provide timely and credible information that will aid ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminals.
