The Lagos State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its ongoing fight against kidnapping in the region. In a press briefing held on Friday, Benjamin Hundeyin, the police public relations officer for Lagos, revealed that the police had successfully foiled a kidnapping plot orchestrated by a notorious gang.
Hundeyin stated, “Our intelligence gathering assets yielded very credible and actionable intelligence about a dangerous and very notorious gang of kidnappers planning to kidnap some high net-worth individuals in Lagos.”
Acting on this intelligence, which was received about two weeks prior, CP Fayoade directed the Command’s tactical teams to spring into action. These teams closely monitored the situation, diligently following up on the leads provided. Their efforts led to the discovery that the gang intended to carry out their kidnapping operation in the Ladipo area of Lagos State.
The gang, which had been on the police radar for the past eight months due to their criminal activities in Isolo, Okota, Ejigbo, and Ladipo areas, was intercepted in Ladipo. A confrontation ensued, resulting in a shootout between the police and the gang members. The police managed to “neutralize” nine gang members, while two others escaped, albeit with gunshot wounds.
At the scene, the police recovered a significant cache of weapons. This included four AK-47 rifles, pistols, various ammunition, communication devices, and vehicles that the gang used for their operations. Investigations are still ongoing as the police work tirelessly to apprehend the suspects who escaped.
Hundeyin emphasized that this successful operation underscores the Lagos State Police Command’s unwavering commitment to proactive crime prevention. He also highlighted other recent successes in apprehending criminal gangs, noting that many of these operations are kept confidential to protect the safety of informants.
The police spokesman took the opportunity to urge Lagosians, including medical practitioners, to report anyone with suspicious gunshot wounds to the nearest police station or to use the emergency hotlines provided. He stressed the importance of community vigilance and the critical role that public cooperation plays in maintaining security within the state.
“We urge everyone including medical practitioners to be on the lookout for anyone with gunshot injuries and promptly inform the nearest police station or call any of our emergency numbers if they come across any,” Hundeyin said.
Furthermore, the police encouraged all well-meaning citizens of Lagos to share any information that might assist in preventing crime and ensuring safety. The Lagos State Police Command remains dedicated to prioritizing the safety and security of its citizens, and they promised to continue their diligent efforts in this regard.
“We also use this medium to call on other well-meaning Lagosians not to hesitate in giving us information when they suspect anything amiss around them to enable us to act appropriately and swiftly. On our part, we promise to continue to prioritize their safety and security,” added Hundeyin.
This latest development is a testament to the effectiveness of the Lagos State Police Command’s strategies in tackling crime. It highlights the importance of intelligence gathering and community cooperation in ensuring a safer environment for all residents. The Command’s proactive approach and swift response to credible threats play a crucial role in thwarting criminal activities and protecting potential victims.
The public’s support is invaluable in these efforts, and the police continue to call for active participation from all citizens. By working together, the community and law enforcement can create a more secure and peaceful Lagos.
