Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have apprehended a notorious serial kidnapper, Mr Clement Elijah, who had been evading capture since a botched abduction in Ajelanwa village in 2024.
Elijah was arrested by officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit on 13 June 2025, while attempting to abduct a prominent resident of Ago Village in the Abigi area of Ogun State.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Omolola Odutola, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued on Tuesday. She explained that the suspect’s plot was foiled due to credible intelligence provided by alert members of the community.
“Elijah, who arrived in Ibiade community on 13 June 2025, intended to kidnap a high-profile individual in Ago Village, Abigi. However, his plot was successfully disrupted thanks to swift coordination between the police and local residents,” the statement noted.
In a follow-up operation on 16 June 2025, the police also arrested the gang’s alleged armourer, Mr Posi Friday, during a clearance operation.
A pump-action rifle, a locally fabricated pistol, and eight live cartridges were recovered from the suspects. The ammunition had been concealed inside a Boom Speaker, presumably to avoid detection.
Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, praised residents of Ibiade and Abigi for their cooperation and instrumental role in the arrests. He urged the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement by sharing relevant and timely information.