The Ogun State Police Command has announced the successful rescue of an abducted traditional prince and the killing of two suspected kidnappers during a follow-up security operation aimed at dismantling the criminal gang responsible for the abduction.
Police authorities said the operation, carried out by the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit with support from other tactical teams, led to the safe release of the victim, identified simply as Prince Idris of Okun Owa in Odogbolu Local Government Area, before officers tracked members of the gang to a suspected hideout where a gun battle ensued.
Prince abducted from residence
According to the police, the incident began on the evening of June 30, 2026, when armed men stormed the prince’s residence in Okun Owa at about 7:30 p.m. and forcibly abducted him.
The kidnapping immediately triggered a large-scale security response after the case was reported to the Ogun State Police Command.
Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni reportedly directed the immediate deployment of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and other specialised tactical squads, ordering an intensive intelligence-driven operation to secure the victim’s freedom and identify those behind the attack.
Investigators launched coordinated surveillance, intelligence gathering and tracking efforts across several locations believed to be linked to the kidnappers.
Sustained pressure forces victim’s release
Police said the sustained operational pressure eventually weakened the kidnappers’ movements and disrupted their plans.
As security operatives intensified the search and closed in on the gang, the abductors reportedly released Prince Idris unharmed on July 3, 2026.
Authorities said the victim regained his freedom without injuries, marking a significant breakthrough in the operation.
However, rather than ending the mission after the rescue, police continued efforts to locate and arrest members of the kidnapping syndicate believed to have carried out the abduction.
Intelligence leads police to suspected hideout
Following fresh intelligence gathered after the prince’s release, operatives reportedly traced suspected members of the gang to the Agoro-Imodi axis of Ogun State.
According to police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, officers moved into the area to arrest the suspects.
The operation quickly turned violent after the suspects allegedly opened fire on the advancing security personnel.
Police responded with what they described as a decisive counter-offensive, leading to a gun battle during which two suspected kidnappers were shot dead.
Other members of the gang reportedly escaped into nearby surroundings with gunshot wounds.
Security agencies have since launched a manhunt to locate and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Weapons and suspected ransom items recovered
Following the exchange of gunfire, officers searched the scene and recovered several items believed to have been used during the kidnapping operation.
Police listed the recovered exhibits as including:
- One AK-47 rifle
- One empty AK-47 magazine
- Two mobile phones
- A bag suspected to have been used for ransom collection
- Other items considered relevant to the ongoing investigation
Authorities believe the recovered materials could provide further intelligence to help identify additional members of the criminal network.
The bodies of the two deceased suspects have been deposited at a government morgue for autopsy as investigations continue.
Police intensify hunt for remaining gang members
The Ogun State Police Command said efforts have now shifted toward apprehending every member of the kidnapping syndicate involved in the attack.
Investigators are analysing intelligence obtained during the operation while expanding surveillance across surrounding communities in an effort to prevent the suspects from regrouping.
Police also indicated that further recoveries and arrests are expected as the investigation progresses.
Commissioner praises tactical teams
Reacting to the outcome of the operation, Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni commended officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit and supporting tactical formations for what he described as professionalism, courage and operational effectiveness.
He reaffirmed the command’s determination to dismantle criminal networks responsible for kidnapping and other violent crimes across Ogun State.
The commissioner also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence capable of preventing criminal activities before they occur.
According to him, the command remains committed to strengthening intelligence-led policing, rapid tactical response and community collaboration to improve public safety and protect lives and property throughout the state.
The latest operation forms part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat kidnapping and other organised crimes across Ogun State, where police say intelligence gathering and coordinated enforcement remain central to their crime-fighting strategy.
