Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have reportedly foiled an attempted kidnapping in the Ejigbo area of Lagos, killing four suspected kidnappers during a late-night operation.
The incident occurred on Sunday night near the Jakande Estate Gate, where police operatives were said to have acted on intelligence regarding a planned abduction of a businessman.
According to reports, gunfire erupted during the operation and lasted for several minutes, causing panic among traders and residents, many of whom fled the area for safety.
Police sources said officers had been deployed to the location after receiving intelligence that a suspected kidnapping syndicate intended to carry out an operation around 9:30 p.m.
A senior officer, who spoke anonymously, alleged that the group was led by a suspect identified simply as Ifeanyi, also known as “Ifeko,” who had reportedly been linked to previous kidnapping activities in Lagos.
The source further claimed that the suspect had connections to a criminal gang previously involved in high-profile abduction cases in the state.
According to the police account, the suspects allegedly opened fire after spotting the operatives, leading to a gun battle.
“At the end of the exchange, four suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while another escaped with gunshot injuries,” the source reportedly said.
During the operation, a police inspector attached to the squad sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was taken to the Police College Hospital in Ikeja for treatment. He was said to be responding well to medical care.
Security operatives also reportedly recovered several items from the scene, including an AK-47 rifle, another firearm, loaded magazines, live ammunition, and vehicles believed to be connected to the suspects.
Police authorities said investigations are continuing, while efforts are underway to apprehend the fleeing suspect and dismantle the remaining members of the alleged gang.
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