The Lagos State Police Command has rescued two people who were kidnapped on Thursday along Ijede Creekside in the Ikorodu region of the state.
This was revealed in a statement issued on Monday by CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the command’s spokeswoman.
According to Hundeyin, at 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, the officers received a distress call on the event and stormed the area.
He said, “A distress report was received at Ijede Division indicating gunshots in the vicinity of Ijede Creekside settlement.
“Acting swiftly, combined teams comprising more than 15 police tactical squads, detectives, conventional policemen, local vigilantes, hunters, and residents were immediately mobilised to the scene.
“Upon arrival, it was confirmed that two individuals whose homes are located within the creek had been attacked and abducted by unidentified hoodlums who escaped via the creek and adjoining forest.”
The police spokesperson added that, on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, a robust and comprehensive rescue operation was launched.
He continued, “The 15 policemen, local vigilantes, hunters, and residents were strategically deployed in various directions to block all entry and exit points to the surrounding creek and forest.
“This coordinated rescue operation led to the successful release of the victims, unharmed, at 10:00 pm on Sunday. The rescued victims have since been reunited with their families.”
He stated that the police, in collaboration with vigilantes, hunters, and locals, are still combing the creek and adjoining forest to apprehend the kidnappers, prevent further attacks, and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Hundeyin commended the bravery of the officers and the cooperation of local vigilantes, hunters, and community members, whose swift response was instrumental to the success of the operation despite the challenges posed by the difficult terrain.
The spokesperson reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of the state.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and security conscious at all times, particularly those residing in the Ijede Creek and other remote areas.
He also advised residents to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station.