Lagos Kidnappers: Vehicles Registered to Nollywood Actor Used in Operation, Police Confirm

It has been confirmed that a popular Nollywood actor and producer, identified only as Ode, was among nine billionaire kidnappers killed in a police operation in Lagos. This group had long terrorized Lagos and surrounding areas.

Detectives from the Commissioner of Police Special Squad confronted the gang at the Ladipo auto spare parts market during an attempted kidnapping of a wealthy businessman. The encounter led to the death of the kidnappers and the recovery of crucial evidence, including four mobile phones and other personal items.

Among the most shocking discoveries were the two operational vehicles used by the kidnappers – a Lexus 350 Jeep and a 4Runner Jeep – which were registered in Ode’s name. Additionally, the mobile phones used for their operations were also registered under his name, though they contained photos of unidentified young men and fake addresses.

Further investigations revealed that one of the deceased kidnappers was a twin, whose brother fled their residence in a Lagos suburb upon learning of his sibling’s fate. A WhatsApp user familiar with the twins identified five of the killed kidnappers, providing significant leads for the police.

An eyewitness recounted recognizing some of the kidnappers from a local bar, having seen them flaunting money and celebrating lavishly just weeks before the encounter.

Police efforts have extended to tracking down fleeing gang members, with one traced to a northern city and another popular rendezvous in Lagos under surveillance. A bar owner frequented by the gang is now in police custody, providing valuable information.

The gang’s ability to evade detection for so long was partly due to their use of military uniforms, which facilitated their movement through police checkpoints. These uniforms were among the items recovered from their vehicles.

In response to the successful operation, executive members of the Ladipo market paid a solidarity visit to Lagos State Police Commissioner Adegoke Fayoade, commending the police for their efforts in combating crime. They presented a certificate of commendation and pledged continued support.

Similarly, local hoteliers and businessmen have reported a surge in business, as the elimination of the kidnappers has made customers feel safer to go out at night.