The police in Lagos have apprehended three suspected kidnappers in a daring raid on their hideout in the Ijanikin area, confirming the swift operation that led to their arrest.
According to the Zonal Public Relations Officer (ZPRO), SP. Umma Ayuba, the suspects identified as Samuel Kwasi, 64, Monday Unachukwu, 24, and Freeman Ekpebo, 23, were nabbed by operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos.
Ayuba stated, “The raid on the kidnappers’ den at Ijanikin resulted in the rescue of two victims who had been held captive by the syndicate.” She revealed that the suspects had demanded a hefty ransom of N150 million.
Elaborating on the operation, Ayuba said, “Utilising advanced tracking techniques and intelligence gathering, a team of detectives led by CSP Tijjani Taofiq swiftly located the hideout in the Ayetoro area of Ijanikin.”
“On March 28, the officers conducted a raid at Cozzy Hotel, apprehending one suspect, Unachukwu, and ensuring the safe release of the victims,” Ayuba added. She further detailed that the other suspects, Kwasi and Ekpebo, were captured at Sun Era Hotel, where they had been waiting to receive the ransom.
Investigations uncovered Kwasi as the mastermind behind the kidnapping, with Ayuba noting, “Kwasi admitted to disabling the car’s tracking device before the abduction.” The retrieval of the tracking device and a knife from the hotel room affirmed the suspects’ involvement in the crime.
Ayuba commended the swift response of the Police officers, expressing gratitude to the community for their cooperation. Additionally, the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) for the zone, Mr. Olatoye Durosinmi, lauded the officers and emphasised the importance of thorough background checks when hiring domestic staff.
The Police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the residents of Lagos and Ogun States, urging continued vigilance among citizens to combat criminal activities effectively.
