Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have killed two suspected kidnappers during a gun battle along the Ilu-Abo axis of the Akure–Owo Expressway in Akure North Local Government Area, successfully foiling an attempted kidnapping.
According to the police, the operation followed credible intelligence on the movement of armed kidnappers in the area. Tactical operatives swiftly mobilised to the location, where they encountered the suspects, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire.
At the end of the operation, two of the suspected kidnappers were neutralised, while others reportedly escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds. Security operatives recovered a pistol, face masks, mobile phones and other items believed to have been used by the criminal gang.
The Ondo State Police Command said the operation prevented what could have been another kidnapping incident on the busy highway, which has witnessed security challenges in recent months.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects, while residents have been urged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements to security agencies.
The latest operation is part of intensified efforts by security agencies to curb kidnapping and violent crimes across Ondo State, particularly along major highways frequently targeted by criminal gangs.