Police Kill Ogun Kidnap Kingpin, Recover AK-47 and N2m Cash

By Jonadab
Published by DocuNews Central
May 20, 2026

Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have killed a suspected kidnapping kingpin during an intelligence-led security operation along the Abeokuta-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. In this operation, Police Kill Ogun Kidnap Kingpin and Recover AK-47 and N2m Cash

The operation also led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of 5.6mm ammunition, N2 million cash, and two mobile phones believed to belong to members of the criminal gang.

The incident happened on May 19, 2026, within the Orile Ilugun Forest axis along the Abeokuta-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. According to DocuNews Central, police operatives stormed the hideout after receiving credible intelligence following the release of a kidnapping victim.

Police Launch Intelligence Operation in Ogun

According to the Ogun State Police Command, the operation followed the successful rescue of a victim abducted on May 14, 2026, at Nufats Fuel Station in the Odeda area of Ogun State.

The victim regained freedom unharmed on May 18, 2026, at about 8:30 p.m. After the victim regained freedom, the Anti-Kidnapping Unit intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering to track the suspects responsible for the abduction.

Police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed that operatives moved into the forest area at about 6:00 a.m. on May 19 after receiving actionable intelligence regarding the gang’s location.

According to the police statement, the suspects opened fire immediately after sighting security operatives. However, officers responded with tactical firepower during the exchange.

The suspected gang leader was killed during the gun duel, while several other members escaped into nearby forest areas with gunshot wounds.

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Recovered Weapons and Cash

Security operatives recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with 20 rounds of ammunition from the scene. Officers also recovered N2 million suspected to be ransom proceeds alongside two mobile phones.

Police authorities stated that all recovered items have been secured as evidence for further investigation into the activities of the gang.

The body of the suspected kingpin was later deposited at a morgue for autopsy in line with police procedures.

Meanwhile, security agencies have launched a manhunt for other fleeing members of the syndicate believed to have escaped during the operation.

Police Authorities React to Ogun Operation

The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, CP Bode Ojajuni, commended the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for what he described as professionalism, bravery, and resilience during the operation.

He said the command remains committed to reducing violent crimes, kidnapping, and armed attacks across different parts of Ogun State.

According to DocuNews Central, the latest operation marked the second major anti-kidnapping breakthrough recorded by the Ogun State Police Command within one week.

Days earlier, police operatives had neutralised two suspected kidnappers and arrested another alleged gang leader identified as Seriki Mohammed Abdullahi during a separate operation along the Ijebu-Ode/Ibadan Road axis.

That operation also resulted in the recovery of firearms, ammunition, suspected ransom money, and communication devices allegedly linked to criminal activities.

Kidnapping Concerns Along Ogun Highways

Kidnapping incidents along major highways connecting Ogun State to neighbouring states have continued to raise concerns among commuters, transport operators, and residents.

Security experts have repeatedly warned about criminal gangs operating within forest corridors near expressways linking Ogun, Oyo, and Lagos states.

Several abduction cases have been reported along the Abeokuta-Ibadan Expressway in recent months, forcing security agencies to increase patrols and intelligence operations across affected locations.

Authorities believe criminal groups often use forest hideouts to coordinate kidnappings and negotiate ransom payments away from public attention.

Police authorities said intelligence gathering remains critical in dismantling armed kidnapping networks operating across southwestern Nigeria.

Authorities Continue Search for Escaped Suspects

Security operatives have continued combing nearby forest areas in search of suspects who escaped during the gun battle.

Police officials said some fleeing gang members may have sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange with operatives.

Residents living around affected communities have been urged to report suspicious movements or individuals seeking medical treatment for injuries.

The Ogun State Police Command also appealed to members of the public to continue sharing credible information capable of assisting ongoing security operations.

According to DocuNews Central, authorities believe sustained intelligence collaboration between residents and security agencies could improve efforts aimed at tackling kidnapping activities within the region.

Growing Security Operations Across Ogun State

The latest operation forms part of broader security measures currently being implemented across Ogun State to address rising concerns over abductions and violent crimes.

Police authorities have intensified patrol operations across highways, border communities, and remote forest locations identified as criminal flashpoints.

Security checkpoints have also increased along strategic roads connecting Ogun State with neighbouring states.

Law enforcement agencies stated that intelligence-sharing between tactical units and local communities has improved recent operations targeting kidnapping syndicates.

According to police authorities, the command remains focused on dismantling criminal networks and preventing further attacks on residents and travellers.

Authorities also assured residents that ongoing operations would continue until fleeing suspects linked to the gang are arrested and prosecuted.

Official Sources and Verification

Information used in this report was obtained from official statements issued by the Ogun State Police Command through spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi.

Additional details were independently verified by DocuNews Central through multiple Nigerian news reports and security updates published on May 19 and May 20, 2026.

Sources reviewed include reports published by The Guardian Nigeria, Channels Television, and Punch Newspapers.