Police Command have successfully rescued two individuals who were kidnapped on Thursday at Ijede Creekside in the Ikorodu area of the state.
The command’s spokesperson, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, made this known in a statement released on Monday. According to Hundeyin, the Police received a distress call around 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, alerting them to gunshots in the vicinity of the Ijede Creekside settlement.
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 situated within the creek, had been attacked and abducted by unknown gunmen. The suspects escaped through the creek and surrounding forest terrain.
Hundeyin added that, following directives from the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Owohundare Jimoh, the Police launched a robust and comprehensive search and rescue operation. “The 15 officers, along with local vigilantes, hunters, and community members, were strategically deployed to block all entry and exit points around the creek and forest. This coordinated effort led to the successful release of the victims, unharmed, at 10:00 p.m. on Sunday. The victims have since been reunited with their families.”
Police Commend Bravery in Lagos Kidnapping Rescue Mission
The Lagos State Police Command continues to maintain a strong presence in the area. Teams remain stationed around Ijede Creek and the surrounding forest to ensure no further criminal activities occur and to track down those responsible.
In recent months, the Lagos Police have intensified efforts in community policing, particularly in high-risk and remote regions. This approach has significantly enhanced trust between the Police and local residents and has led to faster response times to emergencies.
CSP Hundeyin praised the courage and swift action of all personnel and community members involved, highlighting the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and residents in tackling crime. “This operation exemplifies what can be achieved when communities and the Police unite against crime,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Police Command’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all residents across the state. The successful operation underscores the command’s improved readiness and strategic planning in dealing with kidnapping and violent crimes.
Hundeyin urged members of the public to remain vigilant and security-conscious, particularly those living in remote or creekside areas such as Ijede. He emphasized the importance of community involvement, saying, “Everyone has a role to play in keeping our communities safe. Report suspicious activities immediately.”
He concluded by advising residents to report any suspicious activity to the nearest Police station promptly. He also encouraged citizens to participate in neighborhood watch programs and work closely with local law enforcement units to bolster community security.
The Lagos Officers Command continues to seek the cooperation of all stakeholders, urging traditional leaders, youth groups, and civil organizations to support their efforts. With operations like the one carried out in Ijede, the officers aim to send a strong message that criminal activity will not be tolerated anywhere in Lagos State.
The command reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on kidnapping and related crimes and assured the public that every resource would be deployed to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice.
As the Police continue to comb the creeks and forests, Lagos residents are reminded of the importance of timely reporting and vigilance. The successful rescue operation in Ijede serves as a testament to the power of coordinated security action and the enduring commitment of the Police to public safety.
Source- Punch
