Suspected kidnappers forcefully stop vehicle, point gun at driver along Lagos-Ibadan expressway

CITIZENS COMPASS– Some suspected kidnappers have halted a vehicle in an attempt to kidnap some passengers along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

However, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit of the Ogun State Police Command foiled the kidnap attempt, rescued the victims and neutralized the suspects.

This occurred on Thursday, at about 2030hrs, along the Warewa axis of the Long Bridge on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The White Paragon commercial vehicle with number plate, BDG 753 YH, was ambushed by unknown armed men at a lonely section of the road.

It was driven by one Mr. Morufu Adedeji was heading towards Lagos as the assailants wielding firearms and dangerous weapons, forcefully halted the vehicle, pointed a gun at the driver, and began robbing passengers at gunpoint.

During the attack, some passengers managed to escape through the rear door, which had been smartly and courageously opened by the driver.

This act enraged the kidnappers, who then brutally assaulted the driver to the point of unconsciousness. Other motorists raised an alarm, which was swiftly intercepted by the Anti-Kidnapping Team on patrol.

Confirming the incident, spokesperson for the Command, Omolola Odutola, said, “Upon arrival, the police operatives engaged the fleeing criminals in a gun duel. Four of the armed men were fatally injured, while others escaped with gunshot wounds into the surrounding forest.

“Items Recovered at the Scene were one locally made pistol with two cartridges, two daggers, cash sum of ₦20,000.

Others were a Tecno Android phone, one solar power bank, three USB lights (suspected stolen property).

“The bodies of the neutralized kidnappers have been deposited at the State Hospital Morgue, Ijaiye, Abeokuta, for autopsy and further investigation.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, PhD, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ridding the area of criminal activities, and further strengthening security in that area he has reinforced Tactical operatives to remain stationed at strategic flashpoints, in Arepo and heighten routine patrols to ensure the security of residents and commuters.

“The Command urges members of the public, especially medical practitioners, to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds. Citizens are also advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.”

In a related development, the Command has arrested a 52-year-old man, identified as Harry Collins, for impersonating a police officer while dressed in a full police uniform with a sergeant rank.

The suspect was apprehended on February 20, 2025, at about 2:10 PM during a reconnaissance patrol led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Operations, Officers on duty became suspicious of his presence at Longbridge and conducted an immediate arrest.

Upon interrogation at the station, Collins was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for his impersonation, raising further suspicion about his activities. Investigations are ongoing to determine his motives and any potential criminal involvement.

The suspect will be charged to court upon completion of the investigation. The Ogun State Police Command warns the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals posing as police officers.