January 23, (THEWILL) – Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force have neutralised the kidnappers of Mrs. Folasade Odumosu, wife of retired Assistant Inspector General of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, in a daring operation that also saw the recovery of a ransom paid to secure her release.
Mrs. Odumosu was abducted last Friday from her residence in Arepo, Ogun State, by gunmen who reportedly demanded a ransom of N40 million.
The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement on Thursday, revealed that the operatives attached to the Ogun State Police Command neutralised two of the kidnappers, rescued the victim unharmed, and recovered part of the ransom.
The statement read, “In a commendable display of teamwork and swift action, police operatives attached to the Ogun State Command have successfully neutralised the kidnappers of Mrs. Folasade Odumosu and rescued her unharmed.
“On January 16, 2025, at approximately 9:45 PM, four masked gunmen forcibly abducted Mrs. Odumosu from her Lexus Jeep outside her residence in Arepo. Following the incident, the anti-kidnapping unit of the Ogun State Police Command launched a targeted pursuit, leveraging intelligence from Force Headquarters.
“After extensive surveillance of the creeks around Arepo, the operatives traced the suspects to a swampy area in Ikorodu, Lagos State, on January 23, 2025. At about 6:45 AM, the intelligence-led operation culminated in a confrontation with the kidnappers, who engaged the operatives in a gun duel.
“Two of the kidnappers were neutralised, while four others fled the scene, abandoning weapons and other items. Mrs. Odumosu was rescued within the swampy creeks during the operation, unharmed, and has since been reunited with her family after undergoing medical evaluation.”
The police recovered four AK-47 rifles, three locally made single-barrel rifles, various calibres of ammunition, and N10 million, part of the ransom earlier paid to the kidnappers.
Commending the operatives, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, and his team for their gallantry and professionalism.
“This operation exemplifies the dedication and resilience of our officers. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to combating kidnapping and other violent crimes while ensuring the safety and security of all citizens,” the statement added.
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