Ondo State Police Command operatives successfully repelled a kidnap attempt in the early hours of Wednesday, July 8, 2026, resulting in the death of two suspected kidnappers.

The Operation

The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. at a block industry near Ilu-Abo High School, located along the Akure-Owo Expressway. Approximately seven armed suspects reportedly stormed the premises with the intention of abducting the business owner.

Officers from the Federal Highway Patrol Unit, acting on intelligence, arrived at the scene shortly after receiving a distress call. A fierce gun battle ensued between the police and the criminal gang. Two of the suspects were neutralized during the exchange, while the remaining five members fled into nearby bush areas, reportedly sustaining gunshot wounds.

Recovered Evidence

Police search operations at the scene led to the recovery of several items, which have been processed as evidence for the ongoing investigation:

• Weaponry: One locally fabricated pistol and live ammunition.
• Personal Effects: Four mobile phones and two ATM cards, which authorities believe may belong to the gang members or past victims.
• Operational Gear: Several face masks.

Ongoing Investigation

The Ondo State Police Command has transferred the case to the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). Authorities are currently tracking the five suspects who escaped.

Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, has urged healthcare providers and members of the public to be vigilant and report anyone seeking medical treatment for suspicious gunshot wounds. The Akure-Owo Expressway remains a focus for security operations, with the command reiterating its commitment to dismantling kidnapping networks in the region.