Police Raid Leads to Arrest of 3 Suspected Kidnappers in Lagos

In a significant operation, the Lagos Police Command has apprehended three individuals suspected of involvement in kidnapping activities. The raid, which took place in the Ijanikin area of the state, resulted in the rescue of two victims who had been held captive.

The police acted on intelligence and advanced tracking technology [Punch]
Source: The police acted on intelligence and advanced tracking technology [Punch]

Suspects’ Identity Revealed

The arrested individuals were identified as Samuel Kwasi, aged 64; Monday Unachukwu, aged 24; and Freeman Ekpebo, aged 23. This disclosure was made by the Zonal Public Relations Officer (ZPRO), SP Umma Ayuba, in an official statement.

Details of the Operation

According to Ayuba, operatives from the Zone 2 Police Command, Onikan, Lagos, conducted the raid following intelligence gathered about the kidnappers’ hideout in Ijanikin. The swift action led to the successful apprehension of the suspects and the safe rescue of the victims.

Kidnapping Incident and Demanded Ransom

The incident that triggered the operation occurred on March 26 when a resident of Millionaire Estate, Oniru, Lagos, reported the kidnapping of her 10-year-old son, maid (names withheld for security reasons), and driver, Mr. Samuel Kwasi, in the Ikoyi area. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of ₦150 million for their release.

Police Response

Promptly responding to the report, a team of detectives, led by CSP Tijjani Taofiq, utilized advanced tracking techniques and intelligence gathering to locate the kidnappers’ hideout. The operation culminated in the raid at Cozzy Hotel, Ijanikin, where Unachukwu was apprehended and the victims rescued unharmed.

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Further Apprehensions and Investigation

In a coordinated effort, Kwasi and Ekpebo were apprehended at Sun Era Hotel, Ijanikin, where they were allegedly waiting to receive the ransom. Investigations revealed Kwasi as the principal suspect and mastermind of the kidnapping. He confessed to disabling the car’s tracking device before the operation.

Commendation and Caution

The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of the zone, Olatoye Durosinmi, commended the officers for their swift response and appreciated the community for its cooperation. The AIG also emphasized the importance of caution and thorough background checks when employing domestic staff, urging parents and guardians to remain vigilant.