Lagos Police Kill Four Suspected Kidnappers in Jakande Estate Operation
Four suspected kidnappers were on Sunday night killed during a gun duel with operatives of the Lagos State Police Command at Jakande Estate Gate.
The operation was carried out by the Command’s Special Squad 1 following intelligence reports that a criminal gang was planning to abduct a businessman in the area.
Police sources said the suspects were placed under surveillance before the operation was launched to intercept them.
A senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the exercise was based on intelligence received by the Commissioner of Police.
“The intelligence was received by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, prompting operatives to move to the area and monitor the suspects’ activities,” the source said.
According to the source, the gang was led by a suspect identified as Ifeanyi, popularly known as “Ifeko,” who had allegedly been linked to previous kidnapping activities in Lagos.
The operation reportedly turned violent when the suspects opened fire on the police team.
“The gang sighted the police and immediately opened fire, but the operatives responded with superior firepower,” the source added.
“At the end of the gun duel, four suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while another escaped with gunshot wounds.”
The exchange of gunfire reportedly lasted several minutes, causing panic in the area as residents and traders fled for safety.
Eyewitnesses said the shooting continued until around 11 p.m.
During the operation, a police inspector attached to the squad sustained a gunshot injury to the leg and is currently receiving treatment at the Police College Hospital in Ikeja.
Weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a vehicle allegedly used by the suspects, were recovered from the scene.
Security authorities said efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspect and other members of the gang.
The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
