The Lagos State Police Command has confirmed that its operatives shot dead four suspected kidnappers during a gun battle in the Ejigbo area, foiling a plot to abduct a prominent businessman.
Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai told journalists on Tuesday at the command headquarters in Ikeja that the incident occurred around 9:30 pm on May 24, 2026.
He said detectives acted on intelligence indicating that a gang notorious for targeting wealthy individuals was planning to strike at Jakande Estate Gate in Ejigbo.
Fatai explained that the group specialised in entering Lagos specifically to carry out high-profile kidnappings. When operatives moved to intercept the suspects, the gang opened fire, prompting a shootout. Four members of the gang were neutralised, while one suspect escaped with gunshot wounds.
Recovered from the scene were a Toyota Sienna, an AK-47 rifle with two magazines and 25 rounds of live ammunition, an SMG rifle with a magazine containing 12 rounds, and keys to a Toyota Corolla and a Lexus.
The police commissioner revealed that the gang leader, identified as Ifeanyi, also known as “Ifeko,” was based abroad and had returned to Lagos to coordinate the operation.
He added that Ifeanyi had previously trained Henry Asoona, the leader of a billionaire kidnap gang that was eliminated by the police at Ladipo International Spare Parts Market in 2024.
An inspector of police sustained a gunshot wound to the left leg during the exchange and was rushed to the hospital, where he is responding to treatment. Fatai said efforts were ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspect and other accomplices.
He further disclosed that within the month of May, the command arrested 10 suspects linked to various crimes and recovered additional weapons, including pump-action guns, AK-47 rifles, SMGs, pistols, locally made firearms, and other dangerous items.
The police boss assured residents that intelligence-driven operations would continue to ensure the safety of lives and property across the state.
