Operatives of the Lagos State Command Special Squad 1, SHQ Ikeja, have foiled a planned kidnap operation in the Ejigbo area of Lagos, neutralizing four suspected kidnappers during a fierce gun battle.
The incident occurred on Saturday night at Jakande Estate Gate, Ejigbo, following intelligence reports that a notorious kidnapping gang had arrived in Lagos to target wealthy businessmen for abduction.
According to police sources, the operatives acted on credible intelligence which revealed that the gang planned to strike at about 9:30pm and abduct an unidentified businessman in the area.
Acting swiftly, the police team stormed the location and laid ambush for the suspects. However, upon sighting the operatives, the kidnappers reportedly opened fire, leading to a gun duel.
The operatives responded with superior firepower, resulting in the death of four members of the gang, while another suspect escaped with suspected gunshot wounds.
Items recovered from the scene included a Toyota Sienna vehicle, one AK-47 rifle with two magazines loaded with 25 rounds of live ammunition, one SMG rifle with a magazine containing 12 live rounds, as well as Toyota Corolla and Lexus vehicle keys.
A police inspector attached to the operation sustained a gunshot wound to his left leg during the exchange of fire and was immediately rushed to the Police College Hospital, Ikeja, where he is currently responding to treatment.
Police authorities said investigations are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect and arrest other accomplices linked to the gang.
The operation is part of ongoing efforts by the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Police Command, Tijiani Fatai to tackle violent crimes and kidnapping activities across the state.
